Steve @ OutdoorFrontiers wrote:
snip
Spending a lot of money doesn't necessarily equate to quality. I discovered
that long ago when I started upgrading my equipment. It is also the primary
reason why I got into rod building in the first place. I'll take the same
components and assemble a much better rod!

Buying a custom built may get you a better rod than the same
factory model but given what the manufacturers charge for blanks
it can't end up being all that much cheaper. And then there's the
warranty. If I break a G Loomis they'll send me a brand new one
via UPS for $50 and for $65 they'll get it to me in two days. If
I were to break a Huber custom built in a car door how much does
it cost to replace and how soon can you get it to me ? ;-)

Custom builts are great for fancy thread work or specialty grips
but almost all my fly rods are factory models *with* warranties.

--
Ken Fortenberry