Fished the 6'6" MLF and the 6'6"LF this year. After a few hours, these grips cause awful hand pain as they are too small. The designers of this rod made a mistake as I have average size hands and the grip is way too small. Wish they would correct this, as another has noted the 7' rod suffers the same design flaw. Otherwise a great rod. But given you can't grasp this for a full day of fishing without awful hand pain, knocking it two stars. Come on St Croix.

These rods are just the best. Each one I have ordered has been a piece of artwork. Just love them!!

I recently purchased the new spinning rod model 6'6" MLF Avid. I have several of the previous model Avid spinning rods (as well as other SC models). I have always been an Avid fan, but I must say I really like the improvements in the new model. The SCIII blank was awesome, but the SCIII+ blank is even better. Lighter, stronger, and more sensitive … those are are not just sales gimmick statements, they are FACTS!
I also like the new handle design, especially that is is a bit smaller in diameter. I have big hands, but I do like the fit with the smaller diameter, it feels very natural, and I am very thankful that St. Croix kept the full cork handle (it seems like so many other companies are switching to all split grips - to save $ on cork I believe). I love this rod.
Congrats to St. Croix for making a great rod even BETTER! I cannot imagine a better rod made in this price point. The technology in this rod is very advanced.

Well done!

I like what they did with handle, wish it was a little bit bigger in diameter on the 7’ml. They 100% have to bring back the 7’6” mlf, that was one of my favorite rods ever and now they stopped at 7’. Need to make a 7’6” mh for the casting model too. The locking nut is minimal but just feels cheap. Otherwise, these are nice rods, not sure why they are more expensive than the avid walleye rods though.

Purchased a new design Avid - 6'6" MF 2 piece spinning rod for smallmouth and light duty largemouth.
With a Fuego 2500 it is a super light, well balanced combo. Handles a 4 poundah just fine, but light enough to make the 1 pounders fun too. The butt of the rod is not too long, which is great in the yak with a life jacket on. The guide train is great - small diameter but not micro-ish and no trouble with leader knots. I also own a Premier split grip and a mojo spinning. Both are sturdy and well made, but kinda clunky and tip heavy. I wouldn't have minded in my youth, but with elbow and wrist pain, light and balanced is critical. This rod is noticeably lighter and more crisp than St. Croix's "lower tier" models. Definitely worth the few extra dollars!