Wow. Didn't mean to start such an argument.
1. Thanks for Gardiners Admin coming on the forum and answering the post. You've been missed from here and your expertise is welcome.
2. The pole I have bought is, in my opinion, great value for money. No question of that. I'd buy another, nuff said.
3. So, i've use it for a day - it's is more whippy than the old SLX (not a lot, but it is more whippy). It is not noticeably lighter to me, but a long day's work is a long day's work and i'm going to feel tired.
4. It is longer than my old pole, and already I have found an advantage in this. I await to see if, over time, the longer collapsed length outweighs the benefits of the extra reach afforded.
5 Not sure how long the 'positive stop' paint is going to last - perhaps a more permanent solution (to what is an improvement).
Ewan, I don't know you mate, and no offence, but - in my opinion - your tone is unnecessary. Make objective criticisms in a polite way or don't bother at all. I support all Slumpbuster says.
To be honest we should all be supporting Gardiners, Facelift, Brodex, Ionics and all similar suppliers; criticise constructively where necessary and give praise where it's due. In the end it will result in better equipment at keener prices for the end user. Us.
Incidentally, someone mentioned Pure Freedom. I had cause to call them today and Andrew remembered who I was, without prompting, from March last year. In my book this is a good company producing a great system at a reasonable price.