Gander Mountain's new X-Factor rods.

[MN Bass Man]

I had a chance to check these out today. Very attractive, light, good components. Introductory priced at $129, to go up to $149. I'd have picked one up, but they didn't have the model I wanted. Anyone else have a chance to look at these? Your impressions? They've also got the X-Factor branding on some reels, as well as soft plastic baits.

[Tavery5]

Looks like Big Bite is doing the Xfactor baits, and Quantum is doing the reels, anyone know who is doing the rods for them? I checked out the Xfactor Nano rod, seems nice, but, I think I would still have to go with the E21 at the same price point.

[Bassboss]

I've seen them online, and boy do they look nice! Probably ganders answer to the carbon lite. But I haven't had the privilege of handling them yet, but, I can't wait. I plan on going to gander staturday with a friend, maybe I'll see them there.

[BigBassin144]

I got to handle them side by side with the Vendettas and Tesseras.

The XFactors seemed a bit heavier than the other two (or at least the limited amount of ones they had). And it didn't seem as balanced as the other two (with the exception of the Tessera glass cranking rods.)

I didn't get into looking at the guides too much, but one thing that immediately turned me off was the painted reel seat. While they look kinda good and give the rod the look of a $500 import, it feels very cheap to me. I really prefer the Fuji ACS seats on the Vendettas.

Overall, I wasn't to impressed, especially for the price. If it was an $80 rod, then maybe, but I don't think it's worth the $149. I'd buy another Mojo for less than that or the Carbonlite (for $50 less) before I'd buy the Xfactor. That being said, I'd probably buy the Vendetta or Tessera before the Mojo or Carbonlite.

BB