Knighthawk
30-ton nano-infused carbon freshwater bass/panfish rods, entry-to-mid value
- Models
- 11
- Length
- 6.5'–7.3'
- Price
- $179
- Type
- Casting / Spinning
The Old18 Knighthawk is a value-tier freshwater bass and panfish series built for anglers who want component quality above the entry level without paying premium prices. Old18 is a small domestic brand and the Knighthawk appears to be their core multipurpose lineup. Intended anglers include budget-conscious bass fishers, beginners moving up from entry-level gear, and trout or panfish anglers wanting a capable all-around rod.
Blanks are described as 30-ton modulus carbon with nano-infused resin for improved impact resistance. Guides are coated 304 stainless steel. Handles use a modern split-grip EVA design. Construction is 2-piece throughout. The series does not publish rod weights. The "KH" prefix codes indicate Knighthawk, with the subsequent length-power-type-action pattern used in model names. The 11-model lineup covers 6'6" to 7'3" in both casting and spinning configurations, with power from UL to H.
All 7'0" models form the series core, five casting and four spinning variants at varying powers from UL through H. Two 6'-class casting models (6'6" ML-MF and 6'9" ML-F) handle shorter-reach work. One 7'3" MH casting model extends the series toward heavier flipping and punching. The lineup does not include a dedicated topwater or cranking model by action designation.
Deeper Dive
A closer look at notable models.
Shortest casting model. ML at 6'6" with MOD-Fast action fills a niche for crankbaits and shorter-handle techniques on small ponds and streams. Line rating tops at 12lb, suited for light spinning-weight lures thrown on a baitcaster.
Heaviest 7' casting model. H power and 20lb line covers heavy Texas rigs, jigs, frogs, and moderate punching. The 1oz lure ceiling handles most standard heavy bass fishing applications without reaching into big-swimbait territory.
UL casting at 7'0" is a bait-finesse-type rod. The 4-6lb line and sub-3/16oz ceiling target micro-lure techniques on baitcasting gear, an uncommon but growing niche for finesse-oriented bass anglers who prefer a casting reel.
The only non-7'0" heavy-end model. Extra 3 inches over the 7'0" MHC-F improves casting distance for swimbaits and flipping at range. Often the first rod anglers add when the standard 7' feels limiting on open water.
Rods in this series
| Model | Length | Power | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| KH-66MLC-MF | 6'6" | ML | $179 |
| KH-69MLC-F | 6'9" | ML | $179 |
| KH-70HC-F | 7' | H | $179 |
| KH-70LC-MF | 7' | L | $179 |
| KH-70MHC-F | 7' | MH | $179 |
| KH-70MHS-F | 7' | MH | $179 |
| KH-70MLS-MF | 7' | ML | $179 |
| KH-70MS-MF | 7' | M | $179 |
| KH-70ULC-MF | 7' | UL | $179 |
| KH-70ULS-MF | 7' | UL | $179 |
| KH-73MHC-F | 7'3" | MH | $179 |