I think fishing gear is a lot like computers. Last year's model is just fine for most folks and it can be had for a lot less money than the newest gizmos on the market.

I picked up a Sage SLT for a song on close out when they discontinued that one and it's a sweet rod. I got my Scott G2 for way less than half price from a guy on Ebay. It still had the plastic shrink wrap on the grips. The only rod I ever paid full price for was a Winston BII-t. I got it out in West Yellowstone this summer. It was as much a way to remember a fantastic trip with my son as anything else. It has become my favorite rod.

The way I look at it, if it's a piece of equipment you've always lusted for and it's now on closeout, go for it. Like JC said, it's the same rod that you've always lusted for and now it's less expensive

Jeff