As I said at the start of the thread I bought a new Rio Gold.
It’s absolutely not better than the old Gold, or an XS for that matter, both these are still my favourite lines.
However, if they were to release another line, at say £150, and I fancied it, it buy it and try it.
I don’t care who makes what out of it and why, and I don’t care if it cost a fiver to make. I can easily afford it and enjoy spending money on fishing stuff I feel is important to my enjoyment.
I’ve yet to be let down by Rio or Snowbee, but have been let down by almost every budget brand I have tried in one way or another.
Value is totally subjective.
I’m sure Maxcatch copies are ok, people I respect a lot use them and are happy, but I have an aversion to Chinese gear and try my very best not to give them money or encouragement.