Steve,

Very nice - what do you think of the spigot type ferrules? I think there are folks who are still "afraid" of them! The first rod I got with a spigot (1981?) was a graphite H.L. Leonard Diamondback, 8'6" for 6wt, 2-pc. The second rod (1984-85?) with the spigot type, was a Hardy De-Luxe Smuggler, 6wt, 7 piece, 8' 2 1/2". That was a lot of spigots! Weird at first - but haven't looked back! Strange, but I focus more on the # of pieces, than the type of ferrule. I prefer 2 piece rods. No particular reason, other than ease of take-down & assembly. Easier to line-up sections, and keep lined up! YMMV. This has never been a deal-breaker for me either.

Best regards, Dave S.