Has anyone tried the 8wt Hardy Gem Smuggler?

That time of the year again...

I've been thinking of getting a sturdier one-handed travel rod, and I
just bumped into an 8wt Hardy Gem Smuggler with a reasonable price
tag. However, as usual, I have again no way of casting the rod before
buying (that's the way we usually have it over here, no matter how
much we cry over the issue). So I was wondering if anyone has had a
chance to try this rod. All information would be much appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

--
Jarmo Hurri

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