I like my 1263C and I caught three steelhead on it today, yes, 11/11/04. It is my primary float rod for either jigs or eggs under a float (today's weapon of choice).

I have taken a number of kings on it, and a 27# steelhead. There is not a lot of backbone to this rod, but then again, it is only rated 4-10#. Good touch and I like the length.

I've seen folks break a perfectly good Loomis on a silver at Sekiu for no reason at all. Just broke. I have broken one rod in my life while fishing, it was an eagle claw 15-25# 8.5' rod that got snagged on a rock at Duncan rock with braid.

I still have a Kunan classic 96 that I have fished since 1988. Who knows how many fish I've caught on that rod? Just take care of your equipment and don't abuse it. (I caught 2 chum on this rod today.)

There are some defects with some rods, on a case by case basis, but honestly, I think most rod breakage occurs due to user error.