Both companies make great product in my opinion. I own a IMX in 6'6M, GLX 803 Jig n'worm and a Legend Elite in a Spinning Rod. I tend to like the Loomis product slightly better if for no other reason than resale and warranty. If I were buying a St Croix, think I'd save a bit of money and buy the Avid series. I used to have a 7MH in an Avid and it was a very nice rod at a great price. Sorry I can't give a direct comparison on the Tournament series other to say that the ones I have held don't feel as well balanced to me as the Avid Series.