Does anyone care to compare the quality and actions of the top end
blanks with those sold by cabelas? I have used a rod that i built back in the mid-eightys from a cabelas kit for years and I still love it.
My buddys come by everytime they buy a new rod and we take it to the creek for a few casts, everything from diamondbacks to scotts and Orvis's. Either i accidently built a remarkable rod years ago ,or the cabelas blanks are every bit as good as the other (much more expensive) blanks. I am preparing to build a cabelas SLi 8.5 for 5
and just surprised that so many builders are paying upwards to 200.00 for a blank, what is it that I am missing here?

There are many very, very good blanks that sell for quite reasonable fees. Then again, there is some level of technology you cannot buy in the lower end offerings. The bottom line should always be, does the rod do what you want it to do and in the way you want it done? If so, then you aren't missing anything.

Once you reach a certain level, I really don't think there is such a thing as a "bad" blank. Only bad matches between blanks and fishermen. Everybody likes something different. You appear to like the Cabela's blanks so there is no reason for you to buy one of the ultra expensive models.

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I've got the older SL blanks. Love them! Reckon they are as good as blanks 2-3 times the price. I've also got the GL4 and rate them very similar in action, as they say.. progressive. Nice and smooth with the necessary ooomph.

On a somewhat related matter, in the past, Cabella's blank warranty on finished rods vs blanks are different. If this matters to you then it is worth calling their customer service folks.

Thanks guys, guess i just needed someone to tell me it was ok to be in love with a mid level blank.