Split-grip?

[bart]

What is the benefit of a Split-Grip on an ice rod? 

[cwavs1982]

I am not an expert on this topic and have wondered myself, but I think its to have a part of your hand in contact with the rod.  About the same as pistol gripping a reel and placing your finger on the rod - its a feel the bite thing.

[winterbuddy]

It makes putting the reel on easier, fewer placement options.   

[slipperybob]

It's so there's a grip and then there's a butt cap separated from the rest of the grip...yeah@#$*something like that. 

Most of all a spot to tether the rod to something else in case it goes for a drink with a big fish. 

[Agronomist_at_IA]

What is the benefit of a Split-Grip on an ice rod? 

Benefit.....

It makes the rod setup lighter.....which can make it feel more sensitive for those that feel the bite.

It allows for extending the handle length without having to ad the full weight of a complete handle since the gaps are small.

By having the but end it can help to balance an ice Rod/reel setup.

Some setups have the back butt that removes to become a hook removal tool.

Overall.....I think it really has more to do with a company trying to be different and the market didn't have a split grip out...so they shrank down a top end open water style Rod and charged a premium for it.

[TickleStick]

I have both, the split grip might lighten up the rod a little, I personally can't tell a difference.

I think its just a personal preference thing....but I like both