Views and Opinions Please on the Hardy Richard Walker Avon Cane rod

[PershoreHarrier]

Although like many I have said I won't try and acquire another rod I am tempted to try and find one of the above. Bearing in mind I already have a B.James Mk IV Avon albeit not the very first version and an Allcocks Avon Superb would the Hardy rod be a worthwhile option? Thanks.

[Olly]

Personally - I think they are expensive, very expensive. I have 2 BJ Avons and the Allcocks Avon (plus others) - which are sufficient for my needs.

I think a new custom made rod could be perhaps a better investment along the lines of an Avon type. There seem to be several choices available for a similar cost.

[Wallys-Cast]

A tough one really as we all have our favourite makers but my opinion would be to go for it. Hardy cane is a cut above most of the more freely available options.

Wal.

[PershoreHarrier]

Personally - I think they are expensive, very expensive. I have 2 BJ Avons and the Allcocks Avon (plus others) - which are sufficient for my needs.

I think a new custom made rod could be perhaps a better investment along the lines of an Avon type. There seem to be several choices available for a similar cost.

Thanks for your reply Olly - much appreciated. I am not looking at the investment side of this - it is all about using a really nice period rod. Indeed the Hardy option is expensive which may be due to rarity of course. It occurred to me however, that being a later produced rod than the B.James Avon Walker may have in fact modified the taper to produce an improved rod.

My own B.James Avon is a London- England version but I had chance to handle a much earlier B.James Avon and it was an absolute dream and was sold by Barder for around £1,650 I believe. I understand the early rods were built on Southwell cane and perhaps it is that fact that made it feel a much better rod although why Southwell was able to buy better cane than others is a mystery to me.

[PershoreHarrier]

A tough one really as we all have our favourite makers but my opinion would be to go for it. Hardy cane is a cut above most of the more freely available options.

Wal.

Thanks Wal - actually I don't really have a favourite maker. For me it is all about using the rod and how it feels in use and I am tempted to go for either the Hardy Walker Cane Avon or try for a very early B.James Mk IV Avon.