I am a fan of 3 piece 8' rods, which narrows the market even more.

I think 3 pieces is a good compromise between overly bulky 2 pieces and overly ferruled 4 pieces, which adds weight to the equation. Just my opinion.

I found a nice selection at Hook & Hackle, great prices. China made?, yes, some. but also Loomis IMX.

Bill