I fish with Sage rods too. All Z Axis. I only paid full price for my switch rod. One was used and the others were on sale. I fish two orvis rods also. A Trout Bum and a Helious. Same thing, on sale. I'm not rich by any means. I'm a blue collar worker.

Here's how I look at it. I'm married, have no kids and don't live beyond my means. I also dont gamble much, smoke and only drink when out. If I want a rod I save up any OT I work and when I have enough I wait for a sale and buy it. It's all what your passion is. I use the best I can afford.

Do any of you use tools? Do you buy the cheapest or the best? I did small engine work for a while. I always bought Snap on or Mac if I could. I did remodeling part time for 7 yers and bought the best I could in that too. They last the longest and work the best. Plus the lifetime warranty is great too.

Just my .02

TB