I used an AllStar 1263S last year. I first tried to buy one at Ted's in Lynwood, but the sales guy told me not to because he had too many return broken.

Ended up buying one from Outdoor Emporium for myself for Christmas anyway, figuring with an over the counter return policy I'd be covered.

Worked well all winter jig fishing for steelhead (got quite a few). However, this summer it snapped in two while I was making a leisurly cast with a 1/8oz jig and small float. Hard to believe as I barely loaded the rod up.

So I called Outdoor Emporium to get a new one and they were out. So they ordered a one from AllStar. Unfortuantely, they were back ordered. After waiting 5 weeks, I said screw it, traded my broken AllStar in and upgraded to a Lamiglas as I'm very happy with my other Lamiglas rods.

Hopefully, AllStar has improved their quality control. I'm just glad it didn't happen in the middle of winter steelhead season.