Shimano and G.Loomis Launch Limited Edition Bantam MGL & IMX-PRO Combos 2024
Tizi reply :
Anybody seen these yet? Looks like a great deal on high performance combo. American Legacy has em for $444.43.
Tackle Tour Article
Derek1 reply :
Interesting
FishTank reply :
That's a great deal. I paid $350ish for my Bantam. Adding a G. Loomis IMX for less than $100 is a no brainer.
CountryboyinDC reply :
I pre-ordered one for $400; the promotion code is "IMX".
Edited by CountryboyinDCDarn auto-correct
Tizi reply :
On 11/2/2019 at 6:46 AM, CountryboyinDC said:I pre-ordered one for $400; the promotion code is "IMX".
From where?
CountryboyinDC reply :
On 11/2/2019 at 7:49 AM, Tizi said:From where?
I'm sorry - American Legacy.
WRB reply :
TT says it's $499, American Legacy doesn't show it at $444, pre order at $400 with IMX code, lots of conflicting info? Great deal if you are looking for a Shimano combo, the deal will not last long at that price.
Tom
Tizi reply :
On 11/2/2019 at 11:32 AM, WRB said:TT says it's $499, American Legacy doesn't show it at $444, pre order at $400 with IMX code, lots of conflicting info? Great deal if you are looking for a Shimano combo, the deal will not last long at that price.
Tom
waymont reply :
It shows on on the American Legacy site right away. Use the code IMX and get 10% off, bringing it to $399.00
I just used some points I had left over at AL and got the combo for for $368.00! I hope I don't get into the Bantam MGL because I can't afford this stuff at regular prices. I just happened to be on the lookout for a new 7 speed reel when the email came in this morning. I've also been waiting to try out an IMX-Pro, so I couldn't pass it up. The season in pretty much over in my neck of the woods too, so I'll have to wait until next year. Oh brother.
jbsoonerfan reply :
It's literally on the first page, and it's huge. Not a lot of conflicting info.
chubaka reply :
Dang I want so bad! Need to convince the wife some how!
Smalls reply :
That’s a steal. I hope they end up doing a couple more combo deals like this with different rods.
nujer99 reply :
Is the Bantam MGL much better than the Curado DC? Different animal I guess. I feel like my next level reel should be a DC.
Hulkster reply :
i think this is awesome. i sort of wish they did it with a more 'all around' MBR IMX Pro though, since these are now available.
that being said, I own an 892S JWR spinning rod and I use it for a lot of different stuff besides plastics and jigs so it might not be that big of a deal .
TBAG reply :
I just sold two IMX pros last week that were less than a year old and fished only a couple times to upgrade to shorter rods, either GLX or NRX's. I'm now thinking of ordering a few of these combos instead. lol
edit: Nevermind, just saw they're only offering the 863c, that sucks, I'm out.
newyorktoiowa57 reply :
I wish they offered different models. I would be all over if if the 884TWTF were available.
Derek1 reply :
I was gonna order a chronarch mgl/ expride for jig fishing next season. Is this a better setup. I’ve been debating a while. Let me hear it.
OG Crankster reply :
Preorder huh? I wonder how long before they actually ship?
chubaka reply :
On 11/3/2019 at 10:03 PM, OG Crankster said:Preorder huh? I wonder how long before they actually ship?
On TT it said it will be launching mid-November. That could be a clue?
waymont reply :
On 11/3/2019 at 3:28 PM, Derek1 said:I was gonna order a chronarch mgl/ expride for jig fishing next season. Is this a better setup. I’ve been debating a while. Let me hear it.
This is a crazy great price. I’d jump on it if I were you.
The Maestro reply :
On 11/3/2019 at 3:28 PM, Derek1 said:I was gonna order a chronarch mgl/ expride for jig fishing next season. Is this a better setup. I’ve been debating a while. Let me hear it.
I've only handled a Chronarch in the store but it didn't feel on the same level as my Bantam. You should be able to sell the rod for a decent price, especially if you don't use it a d then use the money to buy an Expride. In the end you should be able to get your Expride with a better reel for the same or even less money.
Derek1 reply :
I just picked up the chronarch mgl. Still thinking about this.
TBAG reply :
On 11/3/2019 at 12:25 PM, newyorktoiowa57 said:I wish they offered different models. I would be all over if if the 884TWTF were available.
Yeah, I didn't click on the original link before my previous reply.
I just went to American Legacy to order a few combos and saw they only offer the 863c. Oh well, I'm out.
Basswhippa reply :
Why the negativity towards the 863 IMX?
TBAG reply :
On 11/4/2019 at 9:19 AM, Basswhippa said:Why the negativity towards the 863 IMX?
No negativity from me as the IMX pros are great rods.
For me it's the length. I just sold two IMX pros 853c and 854c because I prefer shorter rods for kayak fishing.
CountryboyinDC reply :
Got a notification that the first combo is on the way. I went back and ordered a second one. My plan was to give the rod and reel separately as Christmas gifts, but now I want a combo for myself too.
fishballer06 reply :
I just got my tracking info as well for mine. Can't wait to finally try one of the new IMX Pro's.
browne762 reply :
I was trying to ignore this, but once you guys said you were getting tracking info I couldn't help myself and ordered as well. Being about 40% off MSRP is crazy.
fishballer06 reply :
Looks like half this website is going to have a fish off for the biggest fish caught on our Bantam/IMX combos. 
waymont reply :
On 11/6/2019 at 3:38 AM, fishballer06 said:Looks like half this website is going to have a fish off for the biggest fish caught on our Bantam/IMX combos.
We should start a thread! Still waiting on mine.
Tizi reply :
You guys got me thinking about this one too. I typically stick to the under $200 each (rod/reel) for a combo and get them on sale, so I spend much less than $400 total. Example, just got a Daiwa Tatula SV TWS for $150 and Tatula 6'10" MH casting rod for $95. Total $245 vs $350 retail. The subject combo is out of my price range based upon the criteria I set for myself above, but....it is such a good deal!
waymont reply :
On 11/6/2019 at 5:15 AM, Tizi said:You guys got me thinking about this one too. I typically stick to the under $200 each (rod/reel) for a combo and get them on sale, so I spend much less than $400 total. Example, just got a Daiwa Tatula SV TWS for $150 and Tatula 6'10" MH casting rod for $95. Total $245 vs $350 retail. The subject combo is out of my price range based upon the criteria I set for myself above, but....it is such a good deal!
We’re all here to help you make the jump to the next level! Heehee
8pt172 reply :
On 11/3/2019 at 10:03 PM, OG Crankster said:Preorder huh? I wonder how long before they actually ship?
Mine shipped today, ordered 11/1/19
mrpao reply :
I haven't heard much about the IMX Pro.
The reviews on TW are alittle disappointing.
How does the rod compare to other rods in its price range?
nujer99 reply :
Just curious, what reel gear ratio are most selecting with this combo? 7.1:1 would be the most versatile right? I know it depends on application but with the rod being more suited for Jigs and Worms it seems the higher speed reels would be a better match right? If I bite, this would be my nicest combo so I just want to choose wisely.
fishballer06 reply :
On 11/6/2019 at 7:53 PM, nujer99 said:Just curious, what reel gear ratio are most selecting with this combo? 7.1:1 would be the most versatile right? I know it depends on application but with the rod being more suited for Jigs and Worms it seems the higher speed reels would be a better match right? If I bite, this would be my nicest combo so I just want to choose wisely.
Buy whichever ratio best fits your fishing style and needs.
I already own the 6:1 and 8:1 Bantams, so of course I bought the 7:1 for this sale.
browne762 reply :
I am finding I like the faster reels for my style. The last 4 or 5 reel I purchased were 8:1 I already have a couple 8:1 Bantams so I went with a 7:1 just to get something a little more middle or the road.
freelancer27 reply :
What would you use the rod for? I am wondering if it could serve as a top water rod..
mrpao reply :
I was thinking the rod would be good for smaller whopper ploppers and buzzbaits/ spinnerbaits
newyorktoiowa57 reply :
On 11/4/2019 at 9:19 AM, Basswhippa said:Why the negativity towards the 863 IMX?
I feel like my negativity was at the lack of
options available as opposed
to dislike of that particular model.
chubaka reply :
Still waiting patiently for mine to ship....
OG Crankster reply :
On 11/7/2019 at 2:46 AM, chubaka said:Still waiting patiently for mine to ship....
Same here. Ordered a 7to1 lefty.
Fishingmickey reply :
On 11/6/2019 at 3:38 AM, fishballer06 said:Looks like half this website is going to have a fish off for the biggest fish caught on our Bantam/IMX combos.
Add myself to this list. Order placed on Monday.
FM
On 11/6/2019 at 7:53 PM, nujer99 said:Just curious, what reel gear ratio are most selecting with this combo? 7.1:1 would be the most versatile right? I know it depends on application but with the rod being more suited for Jigs and Worms it seems the higher speed reels would be a better match right? If I bite, this would be my nicest combo so I just want to choose wisely.
I went with the 8:1. Planning on using it as a jig and worm rod.
newyorktoiowa57 reply :
Does anyone have to combo yet
OG Crankster reply :
Just got my shipping confirmation
The Maestro reply :
On 11/8/2019 at 4:17 AM, newyorktoiowa57 said:Does anyone have to combo yet
I have a feeling we'll be seeing a lot of these in the Show off your Stuff thread.
fishballer06 reply :
My reel arrived today. Should have the rod tomorrow. 
The reel shipped First Class and the rod shipped Priority, yet the reel arrived first. Tell me how that makes sense ????
browne762 reply :
I ordered Wednesday and just got the shipping info so I should have mine middle of next week. Sadly cant use it until spring.
waymont reply :
On 11/9/2019 at 12:33 AM, browne762 said:I ordered Wednesday and just got the shipping info so I should have mine middle of next week. Sadly cant use it until spring.
Who did you order through? That's fast!
fishballer06 reply :
Not what you like to see when you come home.
Basswhippa reply :
Did the rod survive? America Legacy Fishing uses some tough rod containers.
Tizi reply :
Wow, that damage is surprising considering what American Legacy uses. It must have really been mishandled.
fishballer06 reply :
Rod isn't broken, but that's not to say that it won't break on the first cast or hook set.
Hulkster reply :
i believe tackle tour said there was a limited number of these combos available, hence the 'LTD' on the rod label (for limited)
i think the folks on this board will buy them all 
OG Crankster reply :
My rod/reel combo showed up today. Just in time for record cold temps next week.
fishballer06 reply :
ALF is taking great care of me. I'll post a follow up thread soon.
Efishin reply :
On 11/10/2019 at 8:29 AM, fishballer06 said:ALF is taking great care of me. I'll post a follow up thread soon.
They shipped in the crap cardboard tube? Likely the rod is bruised and will break. Only way to ship is in PVC. The cardboard never holds up.
OG Crankster reply :
On 11/10/2019 at 8:42 AM, Efishin said:They shipped in the crap cardboard tube? Likely the rod is bruised and will break. Only way to ship is in PVC. The cardboard never holds up.
Thankfully my cardboard tube was in perfect condition.
Efishin reply :
On 11/10/2019 at 8:49 AM, OG Crankster said:Thankfully my cardboard tube was in perfect condition.
Good to hear. Cardboard works but can't handle abuse in shipping which unfortunately happens 9/10 times. Best thing is to ship in PVC as the cardboard often breaks at the seem, crumbles if wet, etc. Glad to hear those of yall who got it securely.
CountryboyinDC reply :
On 11/9/2019 at 6:37 AM, fishballer06 said:Not what you like to see when you come home.
That must have taken quite a lick. Those tubes that they ship the rods in are pretty tough. I have to saw them about halfway through so I can bend them down to fit into the recycling bin. I've bought a fair amount of equipment from that company, and they seem to be pretty consumer-friendly. Hopefully they'll treat you fairly.
Sheepdog reply :
I ordered mine on Tuesday. Still haven't received shipping info. I'm actually planning on putting the Bantam(8.1:1) on a Dobyns Champ extreme 784c. I've been wanting to try the Bantam for a while. I feel like it will balance well with that rod. And I have a brand new Zillion SV I'll put on the IMX. I've been planning on buying a Bantam for a while now, this deal just gave me an excuse to finally give loomis a test run to compare to my other rods.
newyorktoiowa57 reply :
How does the rod balance?
chubaka reply :
One package is suppose to be here yesterday but it's delayed and somewhere out there. Another package arrived in my city yesterday but won't be delivered until tuesday. Just my luck.
freelancer27 reply :
Would the IMX rod make a good lipless and popper, spook rod?
STBen1215 reply :
On 11/11/2019 at 9:13 AM, freelancer27 said:Would the IMX rod make a good lipless and popper, spook rod?
No. Much better as a bottom contact rod as it's a JWR taper
Hulkster reply :
i use a JWR spinning rod with crankbaits and spinnerbaits and its fine. I find that the Loomis extra fast isnt all that 'extra' fast.
I think the JWR rods are more versatile than people give them credit for.
However, I can only comment on the JWR 892S which is what i have.
Maybe the JWR Baitcasting models are a lot stiffer and possibly faster in taper
fishballer06 reply :
On 11/10/2019 at 1:01 PM, newyorktoiowa57 said:How does the rod balance?
Mine with the Bantam on it balances right where the cork of the locking nut meets the blank.
browne762 reply :
Mine arrived from American Legacy today. No package damage and all looks well.
Tizi reply :
Post up some pics guys!
chubaka reply :
On 11/13/2019 at 5:44 AM, Tizi said:Post up some pics guys!
My reel came in today but my rod was suppose to be here by last Saturday but it hasn't shown up yet. Hope it's not broken
Fishingmickey reply :
Mine arrived today, I've have yet to untube the rod. I did check out the reel and am very pleased. It have a new style latching mechanism for the brake adjustment plate (used to be side plate). Going to spool it up with 15lb Invisx tonight.
It will probably be a week or so till I get to test drive.
FM
VPI reply :
My two showed up tonight and are defrosting from sitting on the 8 degree porch for several hours tonight. Packaging was perfect and everything looks great. A couple of pics of the one I unpacked.
Derek1 reply :
On 11/13/2019 at 12:34 PM, VPI said:My two showed up tonight and are defrosting from sitting on the 8 degree porch for several hours tonight. Packaging was perfect and everything looks great. A couple of pics of the one I unpacked.
Very nice
fishballer06 reply :
On 11/13/2019 at 6:13 AM, chubaka said:My reel came in today but my rod was suppose to be here by last Saturday but it hasn't shown up yet. Hope it's not broken
My reel showed up before the rod too, despite shipping on the same day and the reel being shipping First Class and the rod being shipping Priority. ????♂️
waymont reply :
On 11/10/2019 at 8:42 AM, Efishin said:They shipped in the crap cardboard tube? Likely the rod is bruised and will break. Only way to ship is in PVC. The cardboard never holds up.
I have bought 4 rods from them, and they use super thick rod tubes for shipping. I have also received over 15 rods, and shipped many more in cardboard tubes with zero issues. There can always be something that happens.
Efishin reply :
On 11/14/2019 at 9:18 AM, waymont said:I have bought 4 rods from them, and they use super thick rod tubes for shipping. I have also received over 15 rods, and shipped many more in cardboard tubes with zero issues. There can always be something that happens.
Very true. But cardboard has more issues than other forms of shipping. PVC pipe is far stronger, lighter in instances depending on grade and priced fair. Cardboard stresses easily at seems, cardboard losses all integrity when wet (which happens often as the rivets on carriers truck leak), and cardboard tubes aren't as cheap as they should be IMO.
While I well agree that cardboard is suitable in a perfect world but unfortunately these packages are dropped, stepped on, shoved in trucks, and rained on.
Fishingmickey reply :
Combo #2 on the way. went with the 7:1 this time.
FM
Tizi reply :
On 11/20/2019 at 6:41 AM, Fishingmickey said:Combo #2 on the way. went with the 7:1 this time.
FM
You must have really liked the set up? I am still considering this...
Fishingmickey reply :
On 11/20/2019 at 6:43 AM, Tizi said:You must have really liked the set up? I am still considering this...
I did really like the set up. I am posting a couple of my replies from the finesse jig thread.
Reply: #1
I got a chance to test drive it this weekend. Spooled up with 15# tatsu and fishing with 1/4 oz football head EWG hook jig with a 7" power worm. I was very pleased with the performance of the combo! I was fishing in 14-20' FOW.
FM
Reply: #2
I was very pleased with how the Bantam performed. I set it up with two brakes on, brake control #4 and cast control pretty light, and she is super smooth and pretty touchy. Kinda dang near don't you dare let your thumb off the spool touchy. The freshly filled spool of line might have had something to do with it too.
Fishing in the deeper water I liked it that way. It allowed me to free fall the bait better. I will probably end up turning on all four brakes next time out and backing off on the cast & brake controls a touch more and see how the Bantam performs.
FM
browne762 reply :
On 11/20/2019 at 6:41 AM, Fishingmickey said:Combo #2 on the way. went with the 7:1 this time.
FM
I just ordered another as well. I wanted a 7:1, but they are out of the right hand 7:1 and 8:1. I meant to order Monday, but forgot. They had all three speeds on Monday. Pulled the trigger on the 6:1 just in case they don't restock for this promo.
browne762 reply :
BTW, Tackle Warehouse has this combo now as well if everybody didn't already know. They are selling it as "buy the reel and get the rod for $150" which is obviously more ($500 total) but I am guessing they will go for $400 for their Black Friday sale if the honor 20% off. Somebody at Tackle Warehouse knows that American Legacy is selling them for $400 because they keep deleting Facebook comments about it from people.
I don't know if American Legacy has a Black Friday discount or not or if it would be honored on a deal like this, but with only one reel option left (in right hand) I wasn't going to risk missing out or possibly paying $100 more from TW.
bwjay reply :
On 11/20/2019 at 11:05 PM, Fishingmickey said:I did really like the set up. I am posting a couple of my replies from the finesse jig thread.
Reply: #1
I got a chance to test drive it this weekend. Spooled up with 15# tatsu and fishing with 1/4 oz football head EWG hook jig with a 7" power worm. I was very pleased with the performance of the combo! I was fishing in 14-20' FOW.
FM
Reply: #2
I was very pleased with how the Bantam performed. I set it up with two brakes on, brake control #4 and cast control pretty light, and she is super smooth and pretty touchy. Kinda dang near don't you dare let your thumb off the spool touchy. The freshly filled spool of line might have had something to do with it too.
Fishing in the deeper water I liked it that way. It allowed me to free fall the bait better. I will probably end up turning on all four brakes next time out and backing off on the cast & brake controls a touch more and see how the Bantam performs.
FM
When I got my first Bantam, I spooled it with 14lb Sniper. It was my first nice baitcaster and the first time I threw straight fluoro; up until then I had only used 40lb braid which has been good to me in terms of cast control and ability to undo overruns/backlashes. I took the reel out on my lunch break to a nearby pond I hadn't fished yet, and started casting. The first 10 casts I was really careful and slowly decreased the brake, getting more and more distance, doing my best to gently thumb the spool. On cast maybe 15, I don't know what happened, but I was throwing a 3/8oz spinnerbait on a somewhat windy day, and even though I did a couple other successful casts that gave me nothing to worry about.... on that 15th cast or whatever....... I blew up that reel so bad I had to start cutting. I spent 15 minutes trying to get it out, knowing that if I pull too hard, I'll damage the line and I'll have to cut it regardless. Well I ended up cutting about half the line off the spool. I was pretty upset. I would have been even more upset if it was Tatsu.
Definitely be careful with it, use your thumb, don't be afraid to lose a little casting distance until you get used to the reel. And another thing, be very careful about oiling the brakes too. I think I over-oiled them just a little bit, and I had a day out frogging with it and blew it up on 40lb braid so bad I had to cut it out. I've had I think 3 really bad backlashes with my Bantams (own 2 now, love them), where I had to cut line. The rest I was able to fix and continue fishing. Most times it's not that bad and I just need to gently pull up on one or two loops of the bird nest, then gently pull line off the reel and it comes right out. I think it's important to ALWAYS have some pressure on the line when you are reeling in slack, just to get the line somewhat tight on the spool.
Fishingmickey reply :
On 11/21/2019 at 12:34 AM, browne762 said:BTW, Tackle Warehouse has this combo now as well if everybody didn't already know. They are selling it as "buy the reel and get the rod for $150" which is obviously more ($500 total) but I am guessing they will go for $400 for their Black Friday sale if the honor 20% off. Somebody at Tackle Warehouse knows that American Legacy is selling them for $400 because they keep deleting Facebook comments about it from people.
I don't know if American Legacy has a Black Friday discount or not or if it would be honored on a deal like this, but with only one reel option left (in right hand) I wasn't going to risk missing out or possibly paying $100 more from TW.
I'm guessing that they are down to the 6.3:1's now?
FM
nujer99 reply :
TW looks to have all gear ratios available for the Bantam at this time.
browne762 reply :
On 11/21/2019 at 3:36 AM, Fishingmickey said:I'm guessing that they are down to the 6.3:1's now?
FM
American Legacy only had 6:1s this morning in RH.
bwjay reply :
Well I received my Bantam (151HG) today, which marks my third one. Smooth as ever. I had the HG and XG and was tempted to get the 6:1 model, but the HG is so versatile that I had to get another one. It's got enough speed to start crankbaits and chatterbaits quickly while still being slow enough to creep them along without feeling like you're barely moving your hand (like can happen with a chatterbait with 8:1).
I'm not keeping the IMX-PRO though, even though I'd like to try it; that one is a Christmas gift for my dad who is getting back into fishing. I know he'll never spend that much on a rod for himself, and I wouldn't have spent full retail price on it, but for ~$200 with the deal (if you split the cost between the rod and reel), it seemed like a no brainer. He'll be getting a slick worm/jig rod and I get to fish with nothing but Bantams all year long. I'm happy and I think he will be too.
What is everyone else planning on using the IMX-PRO for? Seems ideal as an open water jig and worm rod with the 3/16 - 5/8oz rating and JWR taper. I'm sure it can do other things well, but the JWR tapers are usually for jigs/worms as opposed to moving baits from what I understand. Doesn't JWR stand for "Jig/Worm Rod"?
EDIT: Wanted to mention, I put the Bantam on the IMX-PRO just to see, right...... I thought, if it has better balance than my 6'8LMHF Helium3, I might keep it and buy something else for my dad. But it turns out the balance is no better! For a rod you're going to be flicking with your wrist a lot, working a jig or worm, it should be more balanced. If I had bought the rod for myself I'd be a little disappointed. But, the paint looks nice and the cork looks and feels nice. Maybe the rod fishes really well! But it seems hard to find a balanced rod these days. It actually made me very happy with the balance of the LMHF with the Bantam, but the balance point could still be an inch further back.
newyorktoiowa57 reply :
On 11/28/2019 at 3:01 AM, bwjay said:Well I received my Bantam (151HG) today, which marks my third one. Smooth as ever. I had the HG and XG and was tempted to get the 6:1 model, but the HG is so versatile that I had to get another one. It's got enough speed to start crankbaits and chatterbaits quickly while still being slow enough to creep them along without feeling like you're barely moving your hand (like can happen with a chatterbait with 8:1).
I'm not keeping the IMX-PRO though, even though I'd like to try it; that one is a Christmas gift for my dad who is getting back into fishing. I know he'll never spend that much on a rod for himself, and I wouldn't have spent full retail price on it, but for ~$200 with the deal (if you split the cost between the rod and reel), it seemed like a no brainer. He'll be getting a slick worm/jig rod and I get to fish with nothing but Bantams all year long. I'm happy and I think he will be too.
What is everyone else planning on using the IMX-PRO for? Seems ideal as an open water jig and worm rod with the 3/16 - 5/8oz rating and JWR taper. I'm sure it can do other things well, but the JWR tapers are usually for jigs/worms as opposed to moving baits from what I understand. Doesn't JWR stand for "Jig/Worm Rod"?
EDIT: Wanted to mention, I put the Bantam on the IMX-PRO just to see, right...... I thought, if it has better balance than my 6'8LMHF Helium3, I might keep it and buy something else for my dad. But it turns out the balance is no better! For a rod you're going to be flicking with your wrist a lot, working a jig or worm, it should be more balanced. If I had bought the rod for myself I'd be a little disappointed. But, the paint looks nice and the cork looks and feels nice. Maybe the rod fishes really well! But it seems hard to find a balanced rod these days. It actually made me very happy with the balance of the LMHF with the Bantam, but the balance point could still be an inch further back.
IMHO it is tough to find balanced 7MH and longer/more powerful sticks these days. I had considered getting a different model, but this post will definitely make me stay away. I also find the H3 balance to be poor.
waymont reply :
I have a MH 7'1", LMH 6'8" Helium 3 and the IMX-Pro LTD. All of these rods are fantastic IMO. The IMX -Pro has a very different taper with a true EF taper. Not sure why Kistler rates a lot of their rods as XF, they seem more like a fast action rod to me. The IMX has a true fast taper. I think they all balance pretty great when fishing. Goofing around in the living room is one thing, but when fishing I don't notice any balance issues at all. All three balance great. Man, the loomis IMX-Pro looks pretty slick.
On 11/29/2019 at 1:13 AM, newyorktoiowa57 said:H3 balance to be poor
If you find these rods balance poorly you should start lifting some weights. The 7'1" MH feels/balances great. Maybe you should try an NRX to get one if the lightest suckers out there.
bwjay reply :
On 11/29/2019 at 2:47 PM, waymont said:I have a MH 7'1", LMH 6'8" Helium 3 and the IMX-Pro LTD. All of these rods are fantastic IMO. The IMX -Pro has a very different taper with a true EF taper. Not sure why Kistler rates a lot of their rods as XF, they seem more like a fast action rod to me. The IMX has a true fast taper. I think they all balance pretty great when fishing. Goofing around in the living room is one thing, but when fishing I don't notice any balance issues at all. All three balance great. Man, the loomis IMX-Pro looks pretty slick.
If you find these rods balance poorly you should start lifting some weights. The 7'1" MH feels/balances great. Maybe you should try an NRX to get one if the lightest suckers out there.
When fishing I don't notice balance issues as much, but I know that if I had more balanced combos, I'd put less strain on my wrist when working bottom contact baits. It's not that the rods are heavy, they're quite light actually. But the heavy tip requires a decent amount of wrist tension just to keep the rod in any position. You're always applying a little upward torque. With my LMH H3, it's pretty minor, and it feels so light, even with a Bantam on the back. But I have no doubt, if I had a rod with better balance, same weight, and a lighter reel like a Metanium, it would be even better. But as it is, I feel like an 8oz reel is required for even halfway decent balance on most rods out there. I have not used a single rod yet that balanced at or very close to the reel, with any reel.
newyorktoiowa57 reply :
On 11/29/2019 at 2:47 PM, waymont said:I have a MH 7'1", LMH 6'8" Helium 3 and the IMX-Pro LTD. All of these rods are fantastic IMO. The IMX -Pro has a very different taper with a true EF taper. Not sure why Kistler rates a lot of their rods as XF, they seem more like a fast action rod to me. The IMX has a true fast taper. I think they all balance pretty great when fishing. Goofing around in the living room is one thing, but when fishing I don't notice any balance issues at all. All three balance great. Man, the loomis IMX-Pro looks pretty slick.
If you find these rods balance poorly you should start lifting some weights. The 7'1" MH feels/balances great. Maybe you should try an NRX to get one if the lightest suckers out there.
I am not the only one to comment on the balance of the H3 rods. Also, the NRX are known as being poorly balanced despite their light weight. I do lift weights, and don't notice balance much when fishing, but if I am spending $300 on a rod, I expect it to balance well when playing with it my living room.
NHBull reply :
On 11/30/2019 at 4:12 AM, newyorktoiowa57 said:I am not the only one to comment on the balance of the H3 rods. Also, the NRX are known as being poorly balanced despite their light weight. I do lift weights, and don't notice balance much when fishing, but if I am spending $300 on a rod, I expect it to balance well when playing with it my living room.
The NRX family is NOT know to be tip heavy. The one that gets the most pushback is the 893 and to that I agree.
newyorktoiowa57 reply :
On 11/30/2019 at 4:36 AM, NHBull said:The NRX family is NOT know to be tip heavy. The one that gets the most pushback is the 893 and to that I agree.
Fair enough, 893 and 894 are the models that I always heard mentioned as the most versatile though
newyorktoiowa57 reply :
Why do you guys think loomis came out with this particular JWR model only to sell them at such a steep discount?
GReb reply :
The H3 7’3” heavy only weighs 4 ounces. Saying it’s tip heavy is kind of nit picky for a rod you can buy for $200 most of the year
FrogMann reply :
On 11/30/2019 at 6:33 AM, newyorktoiowa57 said:Why do you guys think loomis came out with this particular JWR model only to sell them at such a steep discount?
To promote the Bantam is what I think and have a holiday deal. Not a fan of the IMX 863 JWR and Bantam MGL setup.
newyorktoiowa57 reply :
On 11/30/2019 at 7:29 AM, FrogMann said:To promote the Bantam is what I think and have a holiday deal. Not a fan of the IMX 863 JWR and Bantam MGL setup.
What don't you like about it?
jbsoonerfan reply :
On 11/30/2019 at 7:24 AM, GReb said:The H3 7’3” heavy only weighs 4 ounces. Saying it’s tip heavy is kind of nit picky for a rod you can buy for $200 most of the year
These people have no idea what they want. A 7 and a half oz reel is way too heavy but a 4 oz rod is way too tip heavy.
I won't make any jokes about weak wrists because I got in trouble the last time there was a "balance" thread.
The Maestro reply :
On 11/30/2019 at 8:23 AM, jbsoonerfan said:These people have no idea what they want. A 7 and a half oz reel is way too heavy but a 4 oz rod is way too tip heavy.
I won't make any jokes about weak wrists because I got in trouble the last time there was a "balance" thread.
I find the whole emphasis on balance a bit strange as well. Even if the rod balances perfectly, it all changes once you have a bait tied on.
jbsoonerfan reply :
On 11/30/2019 at 8:30 AM, The Maestro said:I find the whole emphasis on balance a but strange as well. Even if the rod balances perfectly, it all changes once you have a bait tied on.
Exactly, it also should change how it feels by the technique you are using. I just don't understand why it matters in your living room.
bwjay reply :
I never complained about the weight of the Bantam. I like it because it balances out my tip heavy rods. I am thankful for the light weight of the Helium3s, without a doubt! But to say that we shouldn't care about rod balance because a lure weighs the tip down even more is just silly. It makes it even more tip heavy. If you get a balanced combo, of course the lure will weigh the tip down, but it'll be much better than a rod that was already unbalanced. I feel like this should be obvious. You could say the same thing about cleaning your house - in 5 minutes there will be dust on stuff again, so why even care? 
waymont reply :
On 11/30/2019 at 8:34 AM, jbsoonerfan said:Exactly, it also should change how it feels by the technique you are using. I just don't understand why it matters in your living room.
That's what I'm saying too.
bwjay reply :
On 11/30/2019 at 1:57 PM, waymont said:That's what I'm saying too.
It doesn't matter in the living room but physics is the same in my living room as it is out on the water. An unbalanced rod is worse than a balanced rod in 100% of situations. How much worse depends on the technique.
waymont reply :
On 11/30/2019 at 2:19 PM, bwjay said:It doesn't matter in the living room but physics is the same in my living room as it is out on the water. An unbalanced rod is worse than a balanced rod in 100% of situations. How much worse depends on the technique.
Have you ever fished a MH/H 7'2"-7'6" rod that is balanced enough for you? If so which rod was it?
bwjay reply :
On 11/30/2019 at 3:21 PM, waymont said:Have you ever fished a MH/H 7'2"-7'6" rod that is balanced enough for you? If so which rod was it?
Sadly, no. As I said before, I haven't used a single rod that balanced any further back than an inch in front of the reel seat screw, with an 8oz reel, except my 6'8 H3 which is about a half inch in front of the screw. Would love to find a rod that balances better, with a lighter reel to boot. If anyone knows of any I should try to get my hands on, let me know!
The Maestro reply :
On 11/30/2019 at 8:34 AM, jbsoonerfan said:Exactly, it also should change how it feels by the technique you are using. I just don't understand why it matters in your living room.
Even the type of bait and the amount of resistance it creates when your working/retrieving it will make way more of a difference than whether or not the balance point is half an inch further forward or back. To the point where the "balance" of the rod will make no discernable difference.
bwjay reply :
On 12/1/2019 at 1:12 AM, The Maestro said:Even the type of bait and the amount of resistance it creates when your working/retrieving it will make way more of a difference than whether or not the balance point is half an inch further forward or back. To the point where the "balance" of the rod will make no discernable difference.
Maybe if you use one rod for every application. For a bottom contact rod that you're just flicking with your wrist, over and over and over and over, balance will make a difference, regardless of how much drag your plastic or lure has in the water. For a topwater that you walk by jerking your wrist over and over and over and over, balance will make a difference. But for just turning a handle to retrieve a moving bait, yeah, balance isn't gonna make a big difference.
waymont reply :
On 12/1/2019 at 12:17 AM, bwjay said:Sadly, no. As I said before, I haven't used a single rod that balanced any further back than an inch in front of the reel seat screw, with an 8oz reel, except my 6'8 H3 which is about a half inch in front of the screw. Would love to find a rod that balances better, with a lighter reel to boot. If anyone knows of any I should try to get my hands on, let me know!
I don't think what you want is really a possibility with rods 7'1"-7'6". You can get a custom rod with a really long back grip like 14" I guess. That would balance it out for you. It's just the physics of all that material above where you hold your reel. To me these rods, the H3 7' H, 7'1" MH, 6'8" LMH, and the IMX-Pro all balance about 1.5" in front of the shorty for-grip. To me for such long rods, that weigh so little that's pretty impressive. Over the last few years my shoulders have been giving me problems so I have been on the light/balance search too. I'm really happy with these rods.
I have an old 6'6" GLX, and a 6' IMX both medium heavy. These would make you very happy balance wise, but maybe not length wise, They float. I hope you find your magic wand somewhere.
Definitely stay away from St Croix casting rods!
bwjay reply :
On 12/1/2019 at 1:32 AM, waymont said:I don't think what you want is really a possibility with rods 7'1"-7'6". You can get a custom rod with a really long back grip like 14" I guess. That would balance it out for you. It's just the physics of all that material above where you hold your reel. To me these rods, the H3 7' H, 7'1" MH, 6'8" LMH, and the IMX-Pro all balance about 1.5" in front of the shorty for-grip. To me for such long rods, that weigh so little that's pretty impressive. Over the last few years my shoulders have been giving me problems so I have been on the light/balance search too. I'm really happy with these rods.
I have an old 6'6" GLX, and a 6' IMX both medium heavy. These would make you very happy balance wise, but maybe not length wise, They float. I hope you find your magic wand somewhere.
Definitely stay away from St Croix casting rods!
Haha, I'll be looking for a long time, I think. I do have 2 SC rods, a 6' MF and 7'MHF Premier. The 6 footer is nice, but obviously the moment arm isn't nearly as long, so it should be overall more balanced. The 7 footer on the other hand is definitely tip heavy, and after my first day of frogging with it for 4 hours, my wrist told me I needed to look for lighter options. My 7'HXF Helium3 is a great replacement but I just bought a 7'3XH Expride as a stiffer rod that should help me drag fish through the thick weeds we get here in the summer. I am under no impression that it will balance anywhere near the reel seat, but I am hoping it's not too bad. We'll see.
nujer99 reply :
Couldn't resist any longer. Finally placed my order for a HG combo. I didn't really need another combo but this will be my first experience with a higher end setup. Now I just need Spring to arrive as quickly as possible.....
bwjay reply :
On 12/7/2019 at 11:56 AM, nujer99 said:Couldn't resist any longer. Finally placed my order for a HG combo. I didn't really need another combo but this will be my first experience with a higher end setup. Now I just need Spring to arrive as quickly as possible.....
Cut up your credit cards because once you turn the handle on that Bantam you're gonna want a few more... congrats on the awesome gear.
fishwizzard reply :
On 12/1/2019 at 1:32 AM, waymont said:
I have an old 6'6" GLX, and a 6' IMX both medium heavy. These would make you very happy balance wise, but maybe not length wise, They float. I hope you find your magic wand somewhere.
Definitely stay away from St Croix casting rods!
I have a couple of 6' and 6'6" loomis rods and they do balance perfectly.
jbsoonerfan reply :
On 12/7/2019 at 1:42 PM, bwjay said:Cut up your credit cards because once you turn the handle on that Bantam you're gonna want a few more... congrats on the awesome gear.
Yep, I have 2 more that are not pictured. I love them!!!!
browne762 reply :
Looks like American Legacy has sold through what they got and are not taking backorders like they seem to on many other OOS items. This would lead me to believe they are done with the promo. (Edit:They actually took them off their site now so...) Tackle Warehouse still has them if anybody was still on the fence and not near one of the listed shops that might be carrying these.
I too am waiting for spring to get to use the rod, but have been using the Bantam for a few months before this promo and they are great. I have five Bantams now.
fishballer06 reply :
Supposedly, there were only 1200 of these rods made. So if Shimano is sold out and ALF can't get any more in stock, then that would make sense. Other retailers might still have stock on hand.
JohnFromLisbon reply :
On 12/10/2019 at 5:31 AM, fishballer06 said:Supposedly, there were only 1200 of these rods made. So if Shimano is sold out and ALF can't get any more in stock, then that would make sense. Other retailers might still have stock on hand.
Shimano actually put up a list of retailers on their website:
http://fish.shimano.com/content/fish/northamerica/us/en/homepage/INFO/IMX-PRO_BANTAM_COMBO.html
FrogMann reply :
Many dealers still have them
nujer99 reply :
On 12/10/2019 at 11:16 PM, FrogMann said:Many dealers still have them
Yeah but the numbers are dwindling.
I should have listened and cut up my card after finally deciding to get in on the action. Big-Un's photo of his combos did me in and I ended up picking up a second combo. Figured it would be nice to have one setup for a T-Rig and one for a Jig on the deck.
If you're still looking, another site still has three right handed combos at the sale price of $399.99 shipped.
They'll be gone soon.
Bashfishin' reply :
are these rods numbered? mine has a gold number "10" on it.
fishballer06 reply :
On 12/12/2019 at 12:19 PM, Bashfishin' said:are these rods numbered? mine has a gold number "10" on it.
I never noticed on mine, but I never looked. Now I'll have to...
browne762 reply :
On 12/12/2019 at 12:19 PM, Bashfishin' said:are these rods numbered? mine has a gold number "10" on it.
I just happen to have one of these rods sitting in my office at work to snap a picture of.This the number 10 you are seeing?
I feel like that is on all of my G Loomis rods, but I cant recall for sure.
gailt reply :
For you that bought this combo,is the rod that much differenf(iE) color, markings,etc., from the regular IMX-Pro.thanks to those that respond
GG
waymont reply :
Seems the same except for the "LTD" added by the ratings info printed on the rod.
fishballer06 reply :
On 12/31/2019 at 4:07 PM, waymont said:Seems the same except for the "LTD" added by the ratings info printed on the rod.
And the blank is 1" longer than the standard 853jwr.
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