Product SKU |
length (ft.) |
length (m) |
Taper |
Number of parts |
Collapsed length (cm) |
Weight (g) |
Tip diameter (mm) |
Lure weight (g) |
Compatible line nylon/fluoro(lb) |
Compatible line PE (No.) |
Grip length (mm) |
Carbon content (%) |
JAN CODE |
165MH |
6'5" |
1.96 |
R |
1 |
196.1 |
125 |
2.4 |
10-30 |
10-20 |
MAX 4 |
231 |
99.6 |
4969363352477 |
168M |
6'8" |
2.03 |
RF |
1 |
203.1 |
117 |
1.7 |
7-21 |
8-16 |
MAX 3 |
239 |
99.5 |
4969363352484 |
170MH |
7'0" |
2.13 |
RF |
2 |
182.8 |
125 |
2.0 |
10-30 |
10-20 |
MAX 4 |
251 |
98.3 |
4969363352507 |
172H |
7'2" |
2.18 |
F |
2 |
187.3 |
130 |
1.8 |
14-42 |
12-25 |
MAX 5 |
256 |
98.9 |
4969363352514 |
264L/M |
6'4" |
1.93 |
R |
1 |
193.1 |
97 |
1.8 |
3-15 |
3-6 |
MAX 1 |
203 |
91.5 |
4969363356055 |
264ML |
6'4" |
1.93 |
R |
1 |
193.1 |
95 |
1.8 |
4-12 |
4-8 |
MAX 1.2 |
205 |
99.6 |
4969363352538 |
267L |
6'7" |
2.01 |
F |
1 |
201 |
95 |
1.7 |
3-10 |
3-6 |
MAX 1 |
211 |
99.6 |
4969363352545 |
269M |
6'9" |
2.06 |
RF |
2 |
180.3 |
107 |
1.8 |
5-15 |
5-10 |
MAX 1.5 |
207 |
98.8 |
4969363352552 |
2610ML |
6'10" |
2.08 |
RF |
2 |
182.3 |
102 |
1.6 |
4-12 |
4-8 |
MAX 1.2 |
207 |
98.3 |
4969363356062 |
274M+ |
7'4" |
2.24 |
R |
2 |
196.7 |
102 |
2.2 |
5-21 |
5-10 |
MAX 1.5 |
222 |
96.3 |
4969363352569 |
163ML-2 |
6'3" |
1.91 |
R |
2 |
130 |
102 |
1.6 |
5-15 |
7-14 |
MAX 2 |
230 |
98.2 |
4969363352576 |
168L+-BFS/2 |
6'8" |
2.03 |
F |
2 |
104.6 |
100 |
1.5 |
3.5-15 |
6-12 |
MAX 1.5 |
210 |
98.4 |
4969363352583 |
168ML+-G/2 |
6'8" |
2.03 |
R |
2 |
130 |
112 |
2.0 |
5-21 |
7-14 |
MAX 2 |
250 |
88.9 |
4969363352590 |
168XH-SB/2 |
6'8" |
2.03 |
RF |
2 |
130 |
172 |
2.1 |
MAX 150 |
14-30 |
MAX 6 |
290 |
97.8 |
4969363352606 |
170M+-G/2 |
7'0" |
2.13 |
RF |
2 |
129.9 |
122 |
2.1 |
7-30 |
8-16 |
MAX 3 |
270 |
87.9 |
4969363352613 |
174MH+-G/2 |
7'4" |
2.24 |
RF |
2 |
130 |
142 |
2.4 |
10-42 |
10-20 |
MAX 4 |
281 |
83.9 |
4969363356079 |
174XXH-SB/2 |
7'4" |
2.24 |
R |
2 |
130.7 |
197 |
3.0 |
MAX 300 |
16-35 |
MAX 7 |
425 |
91.3 |
4969363356086 |
1711MH+-SB/2 |
7'11" |
2.41 |
RF |
2 |
130 |
170 |
1.8 |
10-100 |
10-20 |
MAX 4 |
334 |
97.9 |
4969363352620 |
264UL-S/2 |
6'4" |
1.94 |
FF |
2 |
99.8 |
87 |
0.9 |
1.5-6 |
2-4 |
MAX 0.6 |
205 |
99.1 |
4969363352637 |
264ML-G/2 |
6'4" |
1.93 |
R |
2 |
130 |
102 |
2.0 |
4-15 |
4-8 |
MAX 1.2 |
201 |
86 |
4969363356093 |
The Shimano Bantam series of rods represents a pinnacle in precision engineering, designed to meet the needs of serious anglers seeking both power and sensitivity. Combining advanced Shimano technologies and high-quality materials, the Bantam series offers unmatched versatility and performance across various fishing conditions. The rods are tailored for both professional anglers and dedicated enthusiasts who demand high responsiveness, durability, and a lightweight feel for optimal casting and control.
Spiral X and Hi-Power X Technology
The Shimano Bantam rods incorporate Shimano’s proprietary Spiral X and Hi-Power X technologies, enhancing the strength and rigidity of the blank. Spiral X technology involves wrapping carbon tape around the blank in a helical pattern, creating a rod that resists twisting during casts and retrieves. Hi-Power X technology further reinforces the rod’s structure with an external layer, providing added strength without compromising the rod’s lightweight feel. This dual-layer construction allows for better casting accuracy, greater stability, and a more responsive feel, crucial for high-stakes fishing where sensitivity to subtle bites is essential.
Full Carbon Monocoque Grip
A notable feature of the Bantam series is the Full Carbon Monocoque Grip, a design that delivers unmatched sensitivity by eliminating unnecessary components that can dampen vibrations. By allowing more direct transmission of vibrations from the lure and line, the grip enhances the angler’s ability to detect even the faintest bites. This ergonomic grip is also designed for comfort during extended sessions, ensuring a steady hold with minimal fatigue.
Titanium SiC Guides
The Bantam series is equipped with lightweight Titanium SiC (Silicon Carbide) guides that offer excellent durability and smooth line handling. The corrosion-resistant titanium frames protect the guides from wear and tear, while the SiC inserts provide a slick surface that minimizes friction, reducing line drag and extending casting distance. These guides are optimized for both braided and monofilament lines, making the Bantam rods adaptable to various line types and fishing techniques.
The one-piece construction of the Bantam rods maximizes their performance, providing a seamless feel from the grip to the tip. This design choice minimizes jointed weak points, enhancing the rod's overall strength and improving its response to quick movements, such as sudden hook sets or lure action changes. For anglers who prioritize a balanced feel, this one-piece design contributes to the rod’s stability and control, essential for precise lure manipulation and handling larger fish.
Performance Across Techniques and Applications
The Shimano Bantam series is tailored for a range of techniques, including topwater, jerkbait, and jigging applications. Anglers will find specific models suited for each style, with features customized to enhance performance based on lure type and target species.
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Topwater Models: Designed for surface action, these Bantam rods provide a lightweight feel and responsive action ideal for quick, high-energy movements. The Spiral X and Hi-Power X technologies reduce torsion, keeping the rod stable during repetitive casting and lure manipulation, critical for maintaining lure presentation in topwater scenarios.
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Jerkbait Models: Bantam jerkbait rods offer the perfect balance between stiffness and sensitivity. The advanced blank construction allows for precise twitching motions, effectively imparting the desired action on jerkbaits. This level of control enhances the angler's ability to navigate complex structures and entice fish in challenging environments.
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Jigging Models: The jigging-specific Bantam rods are crafted for strength and durability, essential for targeting larger, more powerful species. These rods have a solid backbone to handle heavy jigs and resist bending under pressure, making them suitable for both deepwater and nearshore jigging techniques.
Aesthetics and Durability
The Shimano Bantam series combines modern aesthetics with durability. The sleek, minimalist design, complemented by premium finishes, gives these rods a professional look that stands out on any fishing excursion. Shimano’s attention to detail is evident in the rod's construction and finishing touches, ensuring both performance and resilience. The Bantam series is built to withstand frequent use in diverse environments, from freshwater lakes to saltwater coastlines.
The Shimano Bantam series is a high-performance, versatile rod collection designed with cutting-edge technology and meticulous craftsmanship. Whether casting topwater lures, working jerkbaits, or jigging for larger species, the Bantam rods provide precision, strength, and sensitivity. With advanced features like Spiral X and Hi-Power X technology, a Full Carbon Monocoque Grip, Titanium SiC guides, and a seamless one-piece design, the Bantam series is engineered to offer an unparalleled fishing experience. For anglers seeking a dependable, adaptable rod that excels across various fishing styles, the Shimano Bantam series delivers performance that meets the demands of serious fishing.