Power: The BIRC-78XH's appointment on our RoD WRACK revealed its deflection curve to be similar to that of the historical average for what we classify as all purpose swimbait rods. That surprised me because normally sticks in that range have a max lure rating somewhere in the neighborhood of five to six ounces rather than three - which again makes me think the BIRC-78XH may be capable of more than what Major Craft specifies, but I didn't really test that. The fact it was good in the range specified (and warranted) is what mattered to me.

Checking out that tip

Having said that, once it came time to swing on a fish with this stick, I was very pleased with how solid those hooksets were and how smooth the rod's power curve was. Sometimes, sticks with moderate tapers can feel a little sloppy and loose. Not so with the BIRC-78XH. In fact, the rod's inherent power is very reassuring.

The hood design is simple, yet intricate at the same time

Guides are Fuji K-Frame SS/Alconite

Design & Ergonomics: The BIRC-78XH tipped our scales at just over six ounces, right in line with the historical average for what we term as our Finesse Swimbait rods. Its balance and tip weight are also in line with that statistic yet its deflection curve hints at more. The length of the rod's rear handle is just barely long enough for two handed casts with big baits, especially so if you keep within the rod's max lure rating. For heavier baits, I'd want a longer rear handle, but again, that's not what this stick is intended to support. Fished within the rod's intended lure rating and the ergonomics are really very good.

The butt end grip is very minimal

I'm not familiar with the original Benkei - if there was one - but if the BIRC-78XH is any indication, the Reloaded is a fun series

Price & Applications: Major Craft, as a brand, may not be as renowned as Megabass or Evergreen International, but for those seeking to sample or add a little JDM flair to their lineup, their sticks are a lot more accessible cost wise. Case in point? The BIRC-78XH retails for only just over two hundred dollars ($200). Application wise, this stick is an excellent choice for both surface and subsurface big baits up to three ounces, but would also make for an excellent crankbait rod, especially deep running cranks - if anyone out there fishes those anymore. Really anywhere you're looking for a rod with a softer taper for moving baits up to three ounces, the BIRC-78XH is a good candidate for that role.

The BIRC-78XH/BB is the best value in a big bait stick I've fished in a long time

Conclusion: Major Craft's product has been available in North America for quite some time. Why it took me this long to get reacquainted with their product is on me. Just too much tackle and not enough time on the water I suppose. Nevertheless if the BIRC-78XH is any indication, their Benkei Reloaded series is a lot of fun and won't break the bank. Considering the BIRC-78XH is outfitted with Fuji brand SS/Alconite guides at right around $200, has just enough JDM flair to its styling, and has an accurate max lure rating, I find it hard not to recommend adding to your wishlist of new sticks to check out. It is more than an excellent value, in fact, it's the Best Value, I've fished in quite some time.

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