You put the industry on notice - these grips are the deal. I own almost the entire series of Avid Inshore in the previous models, I am replacing all of them with the new rods because of the cork.

From the Avid Inshore line, I own three casting fishing rods. I use the larger models and have only very positive opinions to share. What I like most is that they are incredibly lightweight while offering plenty of strength for fighting fish. Even better, these rods do not sacrifice sensitivity, allowing you to feel the swim of the trolling lure and even the slightest changes in the line. I've compared these rods to two other brands in the same price range, and these are by far the best. I use them for heavy inshore fishing and light offshore fishing, targeting species like Yellowfin Jacks, Dorados, Flounders, and large Calicos. I am extremely pleased with these rods.

...grips are crap. Splinters and pitting after two outings. Traditional cork grips would be much better.