David, Duncan has summed up the current position of the FCL. They have improved the wiring a bit by doubling the number of turns which they used to have. If there has been an improvement in the wire, it must have come as a result of changing the wire used because I can't see any difference in gauge.
They are supposed to be working on a new material but I have been advised already it is going to be more expensive.
Please don't think that the current poppers are wiped out in one hit. They're not bad but if a fish hits it in the wrong spot, they can break it or wipe the paint work out. Mind you, I've seen the same on premium lures like Fisherman, Carpenter, Hammerheads etc. If the fish gets the popper in the mouth where they are continually grinding down on it, they will remove a lot of the paintwork. If you simply want durability from a lure, look at Orions.
Steve, I take your point re the cup size but that is only on aspect of a popper. Over the years, I have used basically every popper on the market and some are simply easier to work than others. The FCL has more presence in the water for its weight and its stability through the water also means that it is a more efficient lure in creating the chug, especially in rougher water.
