raiderhunter,

The experts do have an opinion on this one - each expert has his own opinion - each one different. I am not sure there are any exact scientific advantages/disadvantages but some do feel it matters in the balance of the rod. Mostly I believe this question warrants personal opinion/preferences.

I use both, I like down locking for a long/light weight blank - I agree with the better balance idea (The better balance idea can produce numerous arguments as well).

However the shorter/heavier weight rods I like the up locking as it will keep the reel off the ground when handling the rod. The bottom of the reel seat hits the ground rather then the bottom of the reel. There is a fine line as to which rod might get what seat type when I build it.