XST vs. IST?

[OnTheSauk]

Need to build a back-up to my Rainshadow IST1263 float rod. Any reason to go to the XST? If I'm only carrying one rod I will on occasion drift fish with the IST but very seldom. About the only reason I can think of for using the XST. Appreciate any thoughts.

[TH Rods]

The XSt is a better drift rod in my opinion, If you want your drift rod to be one of the best drift rods money can buy... then go with the XST on the other hand the IST is a great rod...
all comes down to how much you want to spend I guess

[CRD4Liberty]

As said before if starting out needing a float drift rod I'd go XST, you're fine as you are now though, I wouldn't buy another unless you see a lot more drifting or boat use in your future than I'd go either 1143 or 1084 in the XST blanks.

[OnTheSauk]

Bought the 1263 IST and snowing like crazy here so will probably get started on it this weekend. I drift fish with a 1143 IST. Stepping up to a XST in that rod will probably be my next project.

[E. Harry]

OnTheSauk,
In my judgement either the IST or the XST will make an excellent rod for you but there is a good reason to go to the XST. The IST is constructed from intermediate modulus of elasticity carbon fiber while the XST is constructed of intermediate modulus in the tip section but high modulus in the butt section.
As the modulus of elasticity goes up strain energy or toughness go down. It is just physics and there is nothing that you can do about it except what is done in the XST's. In the butt section where the stress and strain is lower high modulus carbon fiber is used but in the tip section where the stress and strain will be higher intermediate modulus is used. The result is a blank that is almost as light and sensitive as a high modulus blank but almost as tough, or less brittle if you prefer, as a blank of intermediate modulus material.