PA,

My 22 yr old son has an SLT and I have a Z-Axis. They are both 9', custom built rods. The SLT is a 4wt and the Z-Axis is a 3wt. I have fished both of them. The SLT is softer and slightly slower than the Z-Axis. I like a "stiff" rod on moving water because I can feel the strikes easier. Both are great rods. Good luck in your decision making and Best Regards....