Down-locking reel seats eliminate exposed threads when the reel is snugged up. Lightweight aluminum
barrel with composite cork on the top for ultimate comfort. Graphite rings prevent marring of the reel
foot.
Foregrip measures: 1-3/4".
Available: 7-1/8", 11".
This handle is extremely nice and well made. The cork is of the highest quality and filled/finished well. The reel seat is very attractive and looks good on my rod (St Croix SCv Spinning Rod). My only complaint is the handle came with one "multi-colored" (my words) matching piece of cork for the base/butt plate. The piece is a smaller diameter than the handle and it made shaping the handle butt more difficult than it should have and I am disappointed in my finished product. It would have looked better if the butt piece was the same diameter as the rest of the handle; then I could have shaped it much better. If I had to do it again, I would have ordered an extra piece of cork separately. Overall, a very nice handle and I would still buy it again!
I have not used a better reel seat. I have put one on an ultralight trout rod and on a steel head rod. Both have preformed above expectations. I now have three other people that want me to build a fishing rod for them and they all want the XML Ti spinning handle on their rods. I realize that form follows function, but there are very few options for the home hobby rod builder to customize this handle to improve it's looks. The handle works really well, it is just not pretty.
This handle is simply the best that I have incorporated on a rod. I used Gorilla Glue to install and it has held up and continues to work very well. I am semi-retired and go fishing about 2 to 3 times a week (spring thru fall). I really like the simplicity to operate the handle. The handle has not loosened its grip on the reel once with all the use it has been given. (there is nothing worse than retightening your reel seat while fighting a fish)