Product Reviews
Greys Torsion Carp Rods
One of the best things about my consultancy position with Greys is that I get to use the awesome Torsion rods. When a manufacturer with the reputation that Greys have publicly state that this is the best Carp rod they have ever produced it's hard to not sit up and take notice.
The question I have been constantly asked regarding these rods is, do the Torsions really live up to their hefty price tag? It's true that the Torsion is definitely in the upper price bracket of today's rod market, so what exactly sets them apart from the other rods in this category?
For me the first thing that makes these rods so unique is the weight to diameter ratio. There are many rods available that boast slim blanks on the market today. Most however are very thick in the wall of the blank and therefore usually heavy making them difficult to manoeuvre quickly thus diminishing casting ability. The way most companies have combated this is to increase the diameter of the blank making it thicker, much like the old looking rods of yesteryear. This outdated look is one not favoured by many of today's carp anglers. The Torsion however definitely seems to have the best of both worlds - incredibly light with the slimmest of blanks.
Beware not to be mistaken in thinking that the low diameter, lightweight construction of the Torsion rods means that it's not a serious power house. Simply put these rods possess unmatched levels of power in the right hands.
As far as casting goes the Torsions are about as good as they come. In fact I would even be so bold to say that I'm certain they will help to improve almost any anglers casting no end regardless of ability levels. They have certainly transformed mine! For such a powerful rod they are surprisingly easy to compress. The super fast action ensures a big chuck when needed while the near instant tip recovery means that accuracy will never be an issue. These rods will cope with heavy leads and the biggest of PVA bags with ease. Academy member Ed Betteridge has been fishing at extreme distances with ease using these rods this past year with some truly amazing results.
Considering the levels out and out power that the higher test curve Torsions possess they are superb under the tip. Personally I have been using the 13ft 3.5lb test curve version of late and had no issue with hook pulls or lack of feel what so ever. In fact they have proved to be a pleasure to play fish on. The beauty of having a rod that casts well and can also play fish is that as an angler you will not need different sets of rods for different venues, one set of Torsions will take care of it all. In fact the 12ft 3.25lb model must surely been one of the best all round performers currently available.
Aesthetically these rods are 100% stunning. The slim dark grey blanks and minimal, understated graphics look superb. The CAD designed reel seat will accommodate even the largest of big pit reels and comes complete with an isotope slot for the coloured isotope of your choice. Even though it may look a little different to the norm is without doubt the most comfortable and functional reel seat I have used.
G-Lite rings come as standard on all models with single leg versions on the tip section to keep it all as light as possible. The higher test curve versions come with a 50mm ringing option for those wanting to use big pit reels and maximise distance potential, while the stainless butt cap, line friendly line clip, abbreviated Japanese shrink wrap handle and subtle blue trim finish the rod off to perfection.
Available in a full range of test curves in either twelve or thirteen foot versions with 40mm or 50mm ringing options on selected models there is a rod in the range to suit everyone's requirements.
Finally as with all Greys rods the Torsion comes with the exclusive worldwide extended warranty giving total peace of mind.
As previously mentioned you must expect to pay a premium for these rods as all of these great attributes don't come cheap. Generally speaking you really do get what you pay for these days and maybe even more so when it comes to Carp rods. The Torsions look phenomenal, perform great in all departments and come with a comprehensive warranty, what more could you possibly want in a Carp rod?!
So do they Torsions live up to their price tag? Without a doubt!
David Springall
