Crucial rods are pretty darn good for the money. They're light and sensitive and are around $150 with a lifetime warranty.

Loomis is the best as far as I'm concerned and the $50 is if they determine the rod broke in other ways besides fishing. You can just barely nick a rod and it will brake. You would be surprised... I have never had to pay before unless I was in a rush then they charge you $50 and they send you a new rod. They also include a shipping label to return the damaged one to them