This article dives into a head-to-head comparison of two popular chatterbaits: the Z-Man CrossEyeZ and the Jack Hammer. Both lures are highly regarded among bass anglers, but key differences in design, features, and price point make choosing between them a significant decision. We'll analyze each bait's strengths and weaknesses, examining aspects like blade design, action, weed guard, skirt construction, hook quality, and overall aesthetics. This detailed comparison will help you determine which chatterbait best suits your fishing style and target environments.From the price difference – the Jack Hammer being significantly more expensive – to the subtle yet impactful variations in blade design and action, we'll explore the nuances that set these two lures apart. We'll also consider their performance in different water conditions and cover types, ultimately helping you make an informed choice based on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize a more erratic action for open water or a weed-guard for heavy cover, this showdown will illuminate the ideal choice for your next bass fishing adventure.
Pros And Cons
- More affordable (around $9.99)
- Comes with a weed guard with good memory
- Thicker skirt slows fall and retrieve, running shallower
- Single-prong trailer keeper may be preferable
- Good quality hook
- Less erratic movement than Jackhammer
- Simpler paint job
- Arguably the most popular premium ChatterBait
- More color and size options
- Thinner blade allows for more erratic movement, covering more water
- Better paint job and more durable
- Molded 3D eyes
- High-quality Gamakatsu hook
- More expensive (starts at $15.99)
- Dual-prong trailer keeper may cause trailers to rip
- More prone to snagging
Read more: 5 Killer Spinnerbait Fishing Lures You Need
Price Comparison
The most immediate difference between the Z-Man CrossEyeZ and Jack Hammer Chatterbaits is their price point. Jackhammers typically start around $15.99, sometimes reaching upwards of $22 depending on size, making them a premium option. The CrossEyeZ, while not budget-friendly, usually sits in the $9.99 range, offering a more affordable alternative.
This significant price difference is a key factor for anglers considering which bait to purchase. The higher price of the Jack Hammer reflects its popularity and reputation, but the CrossEyeZ provides a viable, less expensive option.
Blade Design and Action
The blades are where the most noticeable differences lie. The CrossEyeZ utilizes the original Z-Man ChatterBait blade, while the Jack Hammer features Z-Man's proprietary Moto blade. Although similar in overall shape, the Moto blade is slightly longer, narrower, and notably thinner than the original blade.
This difference in blade thickness significantly impacts the bait's action. The thinner Jack Hammer blade creates a more erratic, wider swimming action, covering more water. The CrossEyeZ blade produces a more consistent, controlled retrieve.
Head Design and Features
Both Chatterbaits share a similar head design—a flat, inverted teardrop shape. However, the Jack Hammer boasts a superior paint job with more detail and 3D molded eyes, enhancing its overall aesthetic appeal. The CrossEyeZ features a simpler painted design.
A significant advantage of the CrossEyeZ is its integrated weed guard, featuring coated wire bristles with good memory. This makes it more versatile for fishing in heavy cover. The Jack Hammer lacks this feature, increasing the chances of snagging.
Skirt and Trailer Keeper Differences
The CrossEyeZ possesses a fuller, thicker, and longer skirt than the Jack Hammer. This results in a slower fall and retrieve, making it ideal for shallower applications. The Jack Hammer’s thinner skirt allows for a faster fall and more rapid retrieve. Both skirts are hand-tied and durable.
The trailer keepers also differ. The Jack Hammer features a dual-prong keeper, whereas the CrossEyeZ has a single-prong design. While both function effectively, the reviewer found the CrossEyeZ keeper less prone to tearing trailers.
Hook and Overall Quality
Both lures utilize high-quality hooks; Gamakatsu on the Jack Hammer and an unspecified brand on the CrossEyeZ. Both are sharp and durable. The Jack Hammer, with its superior paint and overall build quality, reflects its higher price point.
The CrossEyeZ, despite being less expensive, remains a premium-quality lure with impressive construction and performance.
Performance and Application
The Jack Hammer's erratic action, due to its thinner blade, makes it ideal for covering more water and triggering strikes in open water situations. The CrossEyeZ, with its more controlled action, excels in tighter spaces and around heavy cover, due to its weed guard.
Both lures are highly effective, but angler preference may depend on fishing style and the specific environment. The CrossEyeZ’s weed guard makes it a more versatile option for various cover types.
Conclusion and Recommendation
Both the Z-Man CrossEyeZ and Jack Hammer Chatterbaits are top-tier lures capable of catching bass. The Jack Hammer's superior paint job, erratic action, and availability in more sizes and colors justify its higher price for some anglers. However, the CrossEyeZ offers excellent performance at a significantly lower cost and includes a weed guard.
The best choice depends on fishing preference and conditions. For open water or situations requiring a more erratic action, the Jack Hammer is a strong contender. For fishing in heavy cover or shallower areas, the CrossEyeZ is a more practical option.