We confirmed that G.Loomis is developing a new Construction Process. This new Construction uses a higher modulus Graphite as well as a new proprietary resin system. The result is a rod that is both 20% lighter and 20% more impact resistant and 20% more sensitive than GLX. Overall the new material is designed to be 25% stronger then GLX and because it will eliminate cracking and is better able to resist further damage from nicks and scratches. This is not some fancy coating, the Special Resin will be infused throughout the graphite fibers within the blank.
G.Loomis’s own website and print ads say something big is coming out on August 13th. 2010
Because the new series blanks exhibit these performance and weight attributes G.Loomis states they will be able to deliver the same action and feel of an 845 (for example) at 2 powers lighter. While we haven’t had a look at the new material we were able to confirm that it will be employed on spinning, casting and fly rods and will make up a new series that is positioned above GLX. For the casting models G.Loomis also dropped a bombshell on me when they stated the rods would finally make use of a split grip. With the new lighter material they felt that it was finally time that they could employ a split grip design and still maintain proper balance. The rods will make use of what we are told to be the best performing most weight efficient guide train ever assembled as well as custom reel seats, no other details on the reel seat were provided but we are guessing G.Loomis will make use of some of the design elements that have become popular in the top end Shimano rods.
G.Loomis confirmed that the rods will feature a color that would not be expected in a G. Loomis blank and each will ship complete with a rod sock. We are estimating that pricing will be close to 500 dollars based on what we have heard so far but did substantiate that the rods will be rolled out sometime in the August timeframe with the launch of around 30 initial models. At the end of our conversation I asked about the origin of the rods and confirmed that all G.Loomis rods are still made in the U.S.A. and nothing will change with the introduction of this new flagship offering, they will continue to be built right here. We are looking forward to the new rods and as the company gets closer to the hard launch we hope to get more details to share with everyone.
Tags: G.Loomis, New graphite material, new rod series, split grip Loomis rod
I agree with xtrachewy here on the point about the split-grips. I have 98% Loomis rods (probably 12 or more) and love ‘em! None are split grip handles These rods ares REALLY getting high tech….I just hope they are not going to be carrot colored! Ha!
Not too long ago,I had a custom crankbait rod made. The guy who made it used a split grip and a St. Croix blank (which I didn’t know beforehand he was going to do). I tried it for a trip or two and concluded it didn’t suit me at all. Sent it back and had him put on a regular cork handle. (It now sits in a corner of my shop.) The split grip was not balanced as I would like and the grip was “off” (at least for me) because it didn’t feel right, e. g., when powering out a 1/2 oz. spinnerbait and using the back part of the handle with a two-handed way. Full cork is better than the split.
Another point here are the bummer (I think) newer type handles that are NOT specie cork but something other than a natural material. I realize that natural specie cork is getting more scarce and, acccordingly, more expensive. Still, this trendy new handle stuff doesn’t work for me.
One man’s opinion, anyway, and 60 years of bass fishing experience.
I prefer the full grip for casting, but I go with split grip for spinning. So I would welcome a split grip
Senna says, still prefer premium cork , it was only a matter of time before the Loomie folks followe the trends. I doubt that I will get to try one out if they are close to the $500 tag.
That may be good news if they drop the price on some of there older model rods. One can only hope.
Lets hope the new color is not yellow or something odd like orange or lime colored. Take note Okuma.
IF they can indeed “maintain proper balance”, a poodle rod is fine with me…
split grip Loomis? say it ain’t so! as if I don’t have enough jig sticks already..