Kistler Rods

[Guido]

Lookin online at some rods, I see Kistler "Helium" rods, priced at 220. I am looking for a medium light baitcaster 7 ft, and have saved some money for a nice rod.

Anyone own any kistler rods?

Likes/dislikes?

Is this helium deal a gimmick?

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1...2...bam got him

[Big Ick]

I've never handled a Kistler rod before, but I think the name "Helium" is just a gimmick. The rod blank is still constructed of graphite with a glass/graphite scrim system. The HSOforum says that the graphite used is a secret proprietary one. It's true that other companies have their own proprietary materials that mix other materials in with the graphite (Lamiglas IM700 series has titanium for added strength), but helium?...isn't that a gas? Who knows, maybe they inject it into a sealed rod blank...I've heard of bicycles which do this, but since I've never seen a description of the rod/blank weight, my guess is it's just a name.

Being custom rod builder, I do like the handles on the rods, but I doubt the blank, and possibly the rod itself, is lighter than say a St. Croix Legend Elite (SCV).

[Dan Wood]

The Kistler Helium is a very nice rod. You will not be dissapointed with it. That is a bit of a marketing gimick, but they are very light rods. I'd take a look at the Loomis IMX in that price range first though.

[Guido]

Thanks for tips guys..May look at the loomis cause I can actually pick one up at a store.

I called around no ones got a kistler in stock in the metro. I wanna feel the rod before I spend the money

thx again

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1...2...bam got him