I have tried to let this thread develop without any import from this end and I am really pleased to hear the nice comments. Thanks guys.
The OKUMA Axeon differs from the OKUMA Solaris in action by being stiffer in the mid (second) section. This negates to some degree the slightly parabolic action of the Solaris and creates a new action which is a bit more tippy. In dry land casting tests the Axeon out performs the Solaris in distance but not by much. Using the same caster (about as scientific as we can get)the Axeon cast 193 metres, the Solaris 186 metres. These are phenomenal distances for a rack rod and not far behind specialised casting blanks. Whats more they are made for fishing! CD Rods who are OKUMA agents make a top of the order casting rod (only available in blank form) in New Zealand in their Auckland factory and a fishing model called the CDXD Surf. These are made with our plumb fibre technique. Overseas distance casters have picked up on these and have recorded casts up to 250 metres. Thanks again for the nice comments.