01-30-2009, 06:43 AM
" I talked with Sage regarding the difference between the Launch series and the VT2 series. the prices are about $225 and $400+. The guy at Sage said the blanks are the same (i asked this same question 3 times and always got the same answer). Then he said the difference is color and the quality of the fittings, cork, guides, seat My conclusion is that you don't necessarily get what you pay for. IMO, it takes good caster (I'm not one) to tell the difference beween two rods with the same action.
For the moment, forget price. Both are very high quality rods. The TFO is made using slightly older technology, which is why it's less expensive - and a little bit slower. It doesn't come with a rod tube - but one can be easily made from PVC The Sage is a little faster. If you put the rod tips on the floor and look at where the bend is, you'll see the difference Preference really depends on casting style.
As per fish fighting, my sense is the TFO 10 wt is more able - look at the thicknesses around the handle - but I can't take the newer technology into account without actually fighting big fish. Both are proven rods that have their respective following...
Now throw cost back into the mix. the TFO is arguably the best value, and is endorsed by Lefty Kreh. However, if for some reason you want the latest and greatest and are willing to pay the price, then the Sage is the better choice."
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