Orochi XX Shakyhead & Expride B 7'M

[LootyDjibouti]

Anyone have experience with these models? Looking for a higher-end spinning rod for wacky rigs, small keitechs, tubes, drop shots, nekos, etc. 

Probably a "can't go wrong" situation but outside of the warranty (MB>Shimano) I'm wondering if there's anything to separate them, or anything to know that wouldn't be known from just the specs. 

Can't get my hands on either but looks like both would be good with using either a split-grip or forward-grip. 

TIA

[NorthernBasser]

I don't have those particular models, but I do have some casting versions- an Orochi XX Diablo Spec-R and a handful of Expride B's. 

 

The Diablo is a 7'2 medium (I think it's more a M+) and my 7'2 Expride B is a MH. The Orochi weighs around 5 oz. The Expride B weighs 4.28 oz. Not apples to apples, but I'm guessing of the two models you referenced, the Shimano will be lighter in hand, if that means much to you. 

[PBBrandon]

No experience with the MB but I have the 7’M Expride B. It’s a great stick. Wacky rigs, Keitechs, and tubes are right in its wheelhouse. I throw a lot of neds on mine as well. It is too stiff for dropshots in my opinion. Probably would want a ML rod for that. 
 

Also Shimano’s warranty may be only a year, but they have a lifetime replacement policy. If you snap your shimano or something, you can get a new one for half off and they pay the return label to ship your rod back. Their warranty/customer service is very good. I’ve replaced a couple of rods including my 7’M Expride this way

[Dye99]

Ive got the Shakeyhead. Actually thinking about selling due to its lack of sensitivity for wacky and Shakeyhead fishing compared to its DESTROYER cousins.

Dont know anything about the expride but Ive heard good things from fishing buddies who use them.

[LootyDjibouti]

52 minutes ago, PBBrandon said:

No experience with the MB but I have the 7’M Expride B. It’s a great stick. Wacky rigs, Keitechs, and tubes are right in its wheelhouse. I throw a lot of neds on mine as well. It is too stiff for dropshots in my opinion. Probably would want a ML rod for that. 
 

Also Shimano’s warranty may be only a year, but they have a lifetime replacement policy. If you snap your shimano or something, you can get a new one for half off and they pay the return label to ship your rod back. Their warranty/customer service is very good. I’ve replaced a couple of rods including my 7’M Expride this way

Thanks for this. Interesting on the lifetime replacement policy, must have missed that. Good to know. 

[thunderblack]

Just fished the MB shakeyhead model in levante this weekend and it was awesome for wacky fishing. I have fished orochi XX in other models, destroyer, and the expride. You'll like either one.