I can appreciate your breakdown of the Croixs. Really, I can. Except I own them of various sizes, and anyone who knows me knows I fish light when it comes to line. I'm not throwing croakers with 30# braid.
Out of all the brands I've used, the ones that have the most problems with are the Croix and a number of the Penns.
Yet, others I use, such as various shimano, loomis, custom batsons, etc, and even an old 2 - piece I've owned more than 30 years all stands the tests of time.
Every single croix had a random issue from the stock tips spinning and having to be reglued, guide centers coming out during fish runs, and tips snapping while casting mirrolures near a guide seat. Some of this is due to parts or craftsmanship error, rather than the Croix brand itself. But the majority of what I bought failed.
Glad to hear they have a 5 year warranty. I need to return 6 of them. Including this 6-12 lb medium ps66mf I'm holding at the moment which I had previous high hopes for.
I know we should sell and show support for rods made in the USA and all, but when it comes to light to medium rods, St Croix pales in comparison in MY experience using them to other available competitors for the same or even a lower price.
I bought them unbiased, and after experience using them, let's just say I'm hesitant at best to even put a reel on one.
On the contrary, however, I've not had any issues with a couple of the higher end ones, but they still collect dust since my confidence in them as a brand has wavered.
Good luck in your decision. My information is not gospel, but is definitely a review of a product however you wish to interpret it.
