Not a
Follower: The Airrus Stargate ASG721HF-C

Date: |
2/18/13 |
Tackle type: |
Rod |
Manufacturer: |
Airrus |
Reviewer: |
Wolbugger |
Total Score: 7.58 -
GOOD
Introduction:
Airrus
has always been a company that doesn't like to follow what everyone else is
doing. Looking at their rod lineup, you'll find very unique qualities in their
designs and construction. It seems that they are constantly tinkering with
different materials and concepts, trying to stay one step ahead of everyone else
or set the next industry standard.
Airrus Stargate
ASG721HF-C
Casting
Rod
Specifications |
Material |
Graphite,
Buckypaper,
carbon fiber |
Length |
7'2” |
Line Weight |
10-25lb |
Lure Weight |
1/2-1 1/4oz |
Action |
Fast |
Power Rating |
Heavy |
Pieces |
1 |
Guides |
9
+ tip |
Rear grip length |
10 inches |
Rod Weight |
6
ounces |
Origin |
China |
MSRP |
$500 |

The
first portion of the rod almost up to the first guide is a beautiful cherry red
color.
My first
contact ever with an Airrus rod came while working ICAST 2012 in Orlando. Cal
and myself stepped into the booth and were shown various rods, including
pre-production models of the new flagship Stargate series. Utilizing the most
advanced features and having a look all their own, these rods are marketed to be
competitive within the premium price segment. After a short while we managed to
get our hands on a prototype Stargate to put through our series of tests. From
the rod wrack to the water, let's see if this rod truly performs at a premium
level.

The
handle area features a “megaphone” grip to amplify sensations.
Impressions:
The Stargate ASG721HF-C strikes me right off the bat as an attractive rod. It's
design is very unique and it really looks like nothing else on the market right
now. While the actual weight of the rod at 6 ounces isn't as light as many
others out there, it balances very well in hand and therefore fishes
comfortably.
The handle is a split design featuring a triangulated foam rear handle with a
composite cork end. A small plastic “button” adds a bit of extra protection to
the end, though a full rubber butt cap would probably offer the best overall
resistance from wear.

The
portion between the main and rear grip is a metal tube which weighs slightly
heavier and helps balance the rod.
The real meat of the handle is smooth, shiny black carbon fiber with a metal
tube connecting it to the rear grip. The reel seat and handle combine in what
Airrus calls a “double megaphone” effect which is said to amplify sensations to
your hand. At first glance, the grip looks futuristic but at the same time
appears slippery. Surprisingly, when wet it does not get that slippery, however
if you get oils from sunscreen or plastics on the grip it does get a bit slick.
Bottom line is overall it's not as “grippy” as cork or foam.
A
carbon fiber lock down nut provides security for your reel, and since it's both
small and smooth there are no issues with comfort. It is also easy to reach
over and put a finger on the blank for increased feel.

Ergonomics of the reel seat and lock down nut are excellent.
The blank construction and design of the Stargate is anything but ordinary.
Looks-wise, above the handle it starts out as a glossy cherry red color with a
gradual transition to dark gloss charcoal which is carried all the way through
to the tip. I find the color scheme to be quite eye catching and really looks
out of the ordinary.

A
Steez on a Stargate.....a great combination!
While looks are important, performance is paramount. Airrus uses what they call
“Zero 8”, which essentially means they are using 8 layers of graphite in the
blank construction; approximately double what an average rod uses. This also
means that less resin is used, which in turn increases the carbon fiber content
making for a stronger blank. Utilizing somewhat of a secret proprietary wrap
pattern and graphite modulus, the rod is not as light as many on the market, but
both strength and sensitivity are increased.

The
color transition before the stripper guide, and the “Zero 8” labeling.
Next
Section: It is all about the "Buckypaper"

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