Tuesday, January 17, 2012

Sage Z-Axis 586-4

Here is the first built this year, the marvelous fast action Z-Axis series from Sage that has been discontinued in 2011 for the new One series. Before finishing this beauty I had the chance to cast it and I can honestly say the Z-Axis is one of the best fast action rods Sage has ever produced despite the long talk about how good its predecessor was, the XP. The Z-Axis replaced the XP some years ago and was designed to do everything the XP did but in a lighter, smaller diameter package and way more fishable in close and medium range. I particulary like the Z-Axis in the more versatile 9' lenghts in 3, 4, and 5 weight. I think the 9' 5 weight Z-Axis was the most talked fast action rod at Sage and I'm sure this won't be it.
Meanwhile I have a great pleasure to show you my latest custom build. Allthough some say I am a bit "slow" or a very meticulous builder, this thing has its benefits. I take my time for each particular build. With each build I'm mastering my epoxy work, handle shapes and rod writing. I'm not a high volume rod builder and even if this would change in the future, my work will continue to be what it is and where there is room to improve, it will.
I hope you'll like this truly one-of-a-kind rod just as much as I enjoyed building it. This rod was sold before completion as the blank was sent it. Coming up next the "hotshot" Sage TCR 696-4 and two more sweet Z-Axis 490-4. Thanks for looking everyone!










3 comments:

Emilian said...

as perfect as a rod can ever get. And I say that as the owner of the rod (so I should know best). Well done, George

George said...

Z-Axis equals perfection in a fast action rod. Thank you Emilian for the kind words.

Jay said...

Interesting to read that the Z-Axis is a better casting rod than the XP, especially also in the short to medium distances. The slightly softer tip of the Z-Axis does the trick.