[Michael Dill]

What would it hurt to spend the 10 bucks for it and try, especially if its the first one you build? If there isnt any visible cracks ,cuts scrapes on the blank the only other thing you would have to worry about is compound stress fractures (crushed modulus) from being bent over to hard, and that is something you really cant see and pretty unlikely with a unused blank. IMOH it would be better than spending in upwards of 50.00$ or more on a blank and find out you screwed up or dont like building.

 

[Michael Dill]

Telling you got what you payed for is a tough one to answer. Some might tell you you can get just as good a blank from one of the lesser expensive manufactures as you can from Loomis, Sage or St.Croix. I all really depends what you want out of the rod and how much your willing to spend. Do a little research on blank production,modulus types and ratings it will help you out some. OHH and yes the manufactures use lables and/or lettering on there blanks for identifacation purposes like length, power, action and weight.