While reluctant to criticize any company that is selling fixed-line rods, I find myself agreeing with JC Hall's comments.

The new crop of heavier TUSA rods, with TUSA boasting of their ability to withstand breakage, confuses me because the only noteworthy rod breakage I've heard about involved TUSA rods. From my own experience, I believe that it is possible for tenkara, and tenkara-style, rods to be both light and durable.

For what it is worth, I currently have six fixed-line rods, and only one has a cork handle; it is my first tenkara rod, a 12' Stone Fly from Fountainhead.

@JC Hall: You are going to love your Sagiri. It is a wonderful rod.

~Paul