G. Loomis comparison

[SpeederMurdoch]

I've owned a Loomis PR842-s popping rod, which was stolen last year. I'm looking at replacing it with a PR-844s. My question is does anybody have real world experience with both, and is the 844 vastly different? I understand it's got more backbone, but how does that translate? Is it still a good rod for big river smallmouth, or is it too much?

[Surf Dawg]

I currently own both those.. They are both good in there own rights....
I find myself using the 842 more so then the 844. The 842 has much better action then the 844, even with heavier mono line... My 844 has wider guide spacing then the 842 does and doesnt cast as well in my opinion. With the wider guide spacing it also has a more pronounced back bone affect. More flat spots in the rod. These are my own opinions and I am not trying to slander Loomis in any way.. Most of my rods are from Loomis. Except here lately....
I have been introduced to Redington rods...Theyre much cheaper and in my opinion fish as well or maybe a little bit better.... I found myself swapping reels on my RFX 8.6 to go from lake bass to steal head.... Just a thought.