550 vs mk 4

[St.John]

All things being equal, eg. condition etc I'd go for the MkIVs. However, all things aren't equal and I'd go for the best two rods. I've never really been one for matched rods and it's not really possible with cane, even if you had a new pair made I bet you'd be able to tell a slight difference in them.

good point well made.
but a pair of mk ivs looks pretty posh!

[WildCarpFisher.]

Have to be honest I'm not into matched rods anymore. I like to have a light cane rod for floater fishing, another for heavier fishing, and maybe a short stalking rod?

Matching up rods (unless you get a chance of a pair like you have) suggests conformity something I try to steer away from these days.

I'm sure you will be happy with your choice, both are cane anyway!!