Traditionally an Avon rod was a lighter version of the famous built cane carp rod designed by **** Walker that had a test curve of 1.5lbs. The Avon had a test curve of 1lb. Both rods were 10ft, and had a through acion ie bent through the length. With fibreglass this length crept up to 11ft and slightly heavier versions, "tench rods" of 1.25lb test curve evolved. With carbon generally most Avon rods are 12ft, still with a through action but mostly 1.25lb test curve. These are suitable for chub, tench, barbel (not in snaggy situations), big bream, small carp to about 10lbs, using lines from 5lb up to perhaps 10lbs at a pinch. Hope this helps.