Been there. First because I did shut a door on the rod but then because I hooked into a snag and splintered then broke the rod off from the handle.
That said, I can't think of a better customer service experience as when I called Jason Mitchell Guide Services...Jason answered
I mentioned I was a pro staff member with IceFishOhio.com and he treated me well.
Jason Mitchell, Clam, and Vexillar supported our site since day one, before it even made sense to. They took a chance on us so we should return the favor and take a chance on their product.
I am looking forward to seeing how your new rod performs as I just got mine in the mail and it seems that the issues have been corrected.