Rod manufactures have almost infinite possibilities in rod design, based on cominations of blank materials, grade of materials, combinations of materials, design, ect. Therefore you will get many different types of rods, even from the same manufacturer. Some manufactures even have species specific numbered ratings that are the same for bass and salmon, but there are some general guidelines you can go by. Rod action is simply were the blank bends. A fast action will bend in the upper 1/3 of the blank, a moderate or medium the upper 1/2 and slow action bends all the way to the butt section. Power ratings, which are the most manipulated, are based on casting a certain weight without stressing the blank. The bottom line, buy from a top brand manufacturer, especially from those manufactures who make their own blanks. They have the most consistent rated rods. And always ask questions, knowledge is everything!