Hardware Rod

I'm not sold on the need to feel the thump all the way to handle. However, I do have a custom spinning rod built on a 9' 8wt Fenwick HMG that sports a classic action that does this. I'm not a spinning guy so I rarely use it.
My thrill is watching someone else hang a fish on it.

In choosing a dedicated hardware rod, I would give up a little fish fighting power for good launching capability.
I use hardware that weighs in at around 1/2 oz and I want a rod that will achieve peak loading with this weight.
I like to fish big water and I will give up some fish fighting power for casting range.
With a stiff, fast or extra fast rod you (likely) won't get that premium loading on wind up and you will have to use more arm when longer casts are needed.
Not all rods listed as "fast" will be "stiff", especially In the longer lengths. Try before you buy.

On smaller water where casting range is not important, less than ideal sticks will suffice for hardware.
When you're really hammerin' it on big water (step casting and slam-dunking on feather flickers), you need efficient gear. A rod that doesn't load properly will simply start wearing out joints (on you!).

One of the best hardware guys that I know uses a Fenwick (USA) FS83 to this day. It's Fenglas which was probably the best application of fiberglas in a fishing rod. Shortly after its introduction it was overshadowed by HMG and its associated hoopla.
It's got a unique blend of reserve power and launching capability.

Terry's one of those guys that reefs on a friggin' snag sometimes and I cringe, wondering if it's gonna take it. It always does....they were tough.
I built three of those in 1988 and I should have kept one, dammit.

Presently using a 9'-6" Certified Pro for hardware.