I have seen three Loomis rods explode in my fathers hands in as many years. I have also destroyed 2 rods in the last two years and have nothing to show for it other than extra eyes and rod tips while my father makes the drive to the loomis plant and picks up a new one free of charge. And yes as others have said they are wonderful to fish with, especialy drifting for winter fish. My rods were low end Lamiglass by the way. I'm making the switch as soon as I can come up with the finances.