I work occassionally at a store that carries Shimano rods. I would definitely go with the Cumara - one of the best feeling rods out there. They are extremely light and sensitive, but they do break on occassion (no more than loomis or other comparable brands). You can trade them in at any retailer that sells Shimano - it doesn't have to be the same store you bought it from. There is no cost to totally replace the rod - however you may have to pay for shipping ($10-$15) - as Shimano requires the store to ship them the broken rod, so that the store can be reimbursed. I have traded several out. It is an outstanding warrantee. Both Shimano and E-21/Carrot Sticks have the same over the counter, no pay warrantee that no other rod can beat. Even Loomis charges $40 for an exchange.
Spend the extra money on the Cumara, your friend will love it. I just grabbed one for my dad for christmas. The warrantee was the deciding factor, as I am willing to bet he will shut it in the car door in less than a year.