Hey Tyson,
I had to laugh when I read your post.
Why? Because you were the one who peaked my interest in the the z-axis! (I took your Coho course on the weekend (Mike)).
I have casted the XP in the past and loved it yet through conversation and a bit of research most guys I've talked with firmly believe the z-axis is an improvement on an already great rod in the XP.
I think I've convinced myself the z-axis is the way to go. I am in the market for a new rod, hence the seeking of more opinions. This is will be one of those presents under the Christmas Tree labeled To: Mike / From: Santa , yet know one knows who actually bought it!
When the family looks at me funny I'll just say, "Hey don't look at me ... I Believe!"
Mike
ps: If you have never sat with Todd on a Saturday afternoon to discuss all things fishing - you should. His course is great and I highly recommend it! Even the seasoned vet will learn something new.