I just got an email from Team Oni with the specs for the new 2014 Oni rods! There are three models with different actions designed for advanced casters, beginners, and even children. The big news is this year, there is a dramatic reduction in price. The top end rods are now only $271 USD and the beginner/children’s rod is $242. That puts them well below many high end mass-produced Japanese tenkara rods.
Below is an image from a PDF they’re sending out to people on their mailing list. So far no information is listed on the Oni website so if you want to learn more, please reference the email address at the bottom of the image. Oni rods are available for purchase in the U.S. here.
Jason: Is the Type 1 the original, with the Type 2 a new one supposedly more durable?
Hi Jim,
Yes, Type 1 is the same as the previous Oni rod. Type 2 is not only a little more durable, but a softer 5:5 action compared to the 6:4 action of Type 1.
thoroughly bitchin’, and i mean thoroughly.
Thanks for the update Jason! I just ordered both the Type I and Type II rod. I do currently have the bamboo handle Type I though. I’ll do what I can to compare the two when I receive them.
Shu,
Would love to see your review. I kind of wish they made the camo handle an option for all the rods. I don’t think it really makes a difference for stealth, but it just looks kind of cool.
I had the honor to spend the weekend fishing with Masami Sakakibara (Tenkarano-Oni) a few weekends ago, and he let me try both the Type II and the Type III. Both were amazing, but I really liked the Type III. I have never felt a lighter weight rod- you can barely even feel it in your hand as you cast it (I mean this in all the good ways). The only thing better than fishing with them myself was watching him use them to their full potential.
I received the type 1& 2 rods today. They both look exactly the same until you extend them the 2 is noticeably thicker as stated. Also weighs 3 grams more than the 1. I haven’t had a chance to cast either of them so I only have pictures to share