I got a Th1025c, rainshadow blank, for my dad for christmas and I did a little field sampling with it when he was at work and I have to say I loved it. Feel was good and has enough back bone to control the fish. Also it casted pretty sweet with my abu 5500 on it. Also putting fish on the bank with it was pretty convincing too. I have never tried an Allstar so I can't comment on those but I think I'm going to pick one up sooner or later when I get back from school, because right now I'm a poor college kid who can't afford anything right now frown But I have no complaints with the Rainshadow pretty dang nice rod, plus a lifetime warranty.