Got my hands on a new rod by Megabass.
Have to ship it in from Japan as no shops in the entire Asia seem to carry this rod in their inventory since it's debut months ago apart from the Japanese themselves and America.
Megabass Destroyer Evoluzion C40
Model: F3.1/2-610ti
Length: 6'10"
Sub Name: Griffon Evolution
Action: Medium Fast
Lure Weight: 7-21grams
Line Poundage: 8-20lb
Guides: Fuji Torzite 10+1
And yes, it comes with it's own hard rod case.
First look:
The hardware used on this rod is the revolutionary new Torzite guides by Fuji mounted on titanium guide frames.
Claimed to be up to 35% lighter than Fuji's SiC and also much smoother under microscopic view.
Makes no difference if you asked me.
The traditional SiC also gets the job done.
Many small details are put into this rod.
Small decals, engravings and what nots.
The head lock is actually made of metal and carbon fiber although it seemed like plastic at first.
Finishing on the blank is awesome.
Glossy gunmetal from the reel seat to the first guide, then matte all the way to the tip.
As usual with Megabass rods, it doesn't come with hook keeper.
Handle is a 13.5" split grip EVA type.
A longer (16") handle is available on the higher poundage models.
After getting some feel on this rod, I decided that a lighter IS79UC reel suits it better in terms of weight distribution.
Feels very balanced in my hand.
Blank seems to be on the softer side for a 8-20lb rod.
Now for my unbiased and unprofessional review...
For a rod commanding such premium price tag, this rod has a MAJOR flaw.
It's sensitivity is only so-so.
Even with the much hyped titanium strands and carbon graphite fusion.
Somehow, the soft rod tip combined with the Torzites (slightly larger than micro guides) and the EVA handle sacrificed much of the sensitivity.
Compared to the Destroyer X7, the difference is very noticeable.
On the other hand, it might just be me.
I'm extremely meticulous when it comes to such things.
Meticulous to the point of insanity...
That being said, it's the ONLY gripe I have with this rod.
The rest I have to say about this rod are very much positive.
Aesthetically, this rod beats all other rods hands down.
From the hardware to the finishing with those fine details.
Paired with a lightweight low profile reel, this is where it really shines.
Casting is much more accurate and forgiving.
Not only that, it seems to favor all sorts of fanciful casting methods.
Regardless of how you cast, sideways or overhead, pitch or skip, it actually made things a whole lot easier and accurate.
Even with the short handle length, the rod can be easily loaded with a <10grams lure.
It gives me more confidence during casting which adds to the fun factor.
With a giant snakehead at the end of the line, this rod means business when pulled right to the bone.
It possesses the power to pull in large powerful specimens even with the seemingly soft blank.
All in all, this rod handles and looks like a dream, if the lack of sensitivity doesn't bothers you that is.
An extremely versatile stick suitable for all kinds of casting styles and environment.
Not only that, it actually packs a punch (a lot in fact) when you need that extra power.
