Apex is designed for technically skilled anglers who can double haul 80 feet – all day long. Guys headed for Florida tarpon, bones, snook or big North East blues. Apex features an unsanded, unpainted blank that dramatically reduces weight and increases wall strength magnifying its ultra-fast taper. Apex is engineered with highly compressed Dual Helical graphite that migrates epoxy resins to its surface. This chemically bonded, high-gloss, wind-cutting surface is the hardest, most nick resistant finish imaginable. All Apex rods are fitted with diamond-polished, oversized snake guides and low friction silicone carbide (sic) stripping guides. Handles and Reel Seats: All Apex models are built with a Full Wells grip and T&T custom saltwater seat with ebony toned salt-proof spacer and bright anodized mechanics. 8 and 9 wt. rods have a 1 1/2" fighting butt, 10 wt. rods are fitted with 2".