Catcher1, remember, you get what you pay for. I'm guessing the Allstar rod might cost you around $90-$100. If you can afford the extra $70 for the custom rod, get it... that's a great deal for a custom rod with good components and a great blank. You can get it with the color thread and reel seat you want, that's why it's a custom. I'm sure TH probably gets his components from Rainshadow, they carry quality stuff.

My friend bought an Allstar 1025, he's only had it a couple of months, and the cork is starting to degrade... IMHO, the Allstar completes are built with a lesser grade cork and guides to get their cost down (not to mention cheaper labor in Texas)

On another note, I believe the Rainshadow blanks are built by Allstar, but to Rainshadow specs (tapers) so blank vs. blank, unless the epoxy/graphite recipe is different, they are probably pretty close.

-N.