I recently bought 2 of the Precip rods (CR and SB) and one of the Mettle reels from Academy and must say that I've been pleasantly surprised. I'm primarily a Shimano/Loomis guy, but have had a couple of the newer (silver) Curados [censored] out on me, so decided to look for some other alternatives. The Mettle sells for $49, has a 10 bearings and is very light and smooth. The Precip rods are also very light and made with quality components. I think it will be hard to beat those rods for the price. I've been looking at the Menace as well for a future purchase...anyone have any experience with that reel?

I'm officially an H2O fan. I know their cranks took some serious business away from Lucky Craft...it looks like their hardware will take some from the bigger rod/reel manufacturers as well.

The Mettle is my favorite reel. You can throw it a mile, and I'm not sure I've ever backlashed.

they are good at first they just don't have the staying power other reels do...now for the price I have been SUPER impressed but if you REALLY want 2 have one that will last then spend more but for the price you can't beat'em

I have the combo that you have mentioned above. I brought it last week and used it this past weekend and I couldn't believe how well it handled and how light/balanced it felt. In the past I had another Academy combo, I think it was the SW balanced combo and I was impressed with it so much that I thought I would give this one a try. Overall the H2O equipment has surpassed my expectations and you can�t beat them on price point.