Physical difference between XF and F actions?

[everyXnewXday]

As I slowly build up my rod arsenal and am not really able to handle many rods in person before ordering I've been wondering about the actual difference between an XF vs an F action. I understand the basic definition, that the faster the action the more the rod's flex is focused towards the tip, but I'm curious about how this works practically.

For example, assuming two rods from the same maker of the same length and power rating, should I expect the XF rod to   
     
(A) have a longer backbone section with the same tip thickness/flexibility as the F     
     or     
(B) have the same backbone section length but then taper more quickly to a thinner and/or more flexible tip section?     

To put it more practically, compared to a fast rod, does an XF with the same power rating load up to the backbone faster because the tip is lighter, or because the mid section is heavier?

And then it gets more confusing for me when taking length into account. For example, I have a 7'3" MH/F rod and the manufacturer also offers a 7'1" MH/XF rod. Should I expect the 7'1" XF to have a similar backbone when loaded but a lighter tip, or the same tip weight but with a stiffer mid-section?

Thanks for helping a guy who can't help but want to understand this stuff on a more technical level because it satisfies his OCD and purchasing anxiety

[topdsm0138]

The main difference between F and XF fishing rods is the sensitivity of the tip and how quickly the rod returns to its normal state after bending:

FAST: A fast tapered rod with a progressive tip and solid backbone. Fast rods are good for casting long distances and fighting large fish.

EXTRA FAST: An extra fast tapered rod with a very sensitive tip that shuts down quickly and transfers power to the rod. XF rods are designed for throwing heavy rigs, spinners, and overall muscle.

*This is just the fastest and easiest way I can explain it as I'm not a "Tourney guy", just a Weekend Warrior/Pond Pirate.

Tiller Mafia.

[coldfront]

good explanation.

in practice, i've gone to my preferences:  Xfast and a few fast... no mediums anymore (unless you count spinning rods, there fast/xfast is pretty much medium to me)

doesn't matter the technique.  feel is critical and these rods just let me feel more.  some folks suggest they feel 'too much' and can snatch the bait away from the fish.

I figure to adapt MY actions.  soft hands... hook set techniques (rip em, sweep, etc).

a softer rod doesn't help me get hook ups with swimbaits.  those dang fish just have to be given time to EAT that bait...

at any rate:  will be the entire range of opinions on this.


if I remember correctly, Rick Clunn went to 'same rod, same action' for all his when he was fishing that center console nitro...

[loomisguy]

It varies from manufacturer to manufacturer but yes, it's how quickly the rod gets into the power. A xfast will, in theory have less tip than a fast or any more moderate rod. I personally don't don't care for super quick rods.
The Loomis JWR would be a quick action vs the more moderate MBR.