I rate the original Allertons as the best ever John, the stem is not too heavy so they cast shot first, never had a bad tangle with one (what a bold statement that is!).
trouble is I'm down to my last few now, used to have three of each size in both black and red tops.
for looks and quality though, and I meant to show you them the other week but forgot, i have some lignum sticks made by a guy called Dave Pearson (you may know him?)and they are the best example of craftsmanship you will see, problem with these though is the stems are a bit too heavy and they do not cast too well so you have to be extra carefull every cast, which is a big ask for a lazy sod like me. they hold their line in the water perfectly though.