I started out with rods that were too soft, and I'm learning what the heavier gear is good for. Look at the lure weight rating - a 2 oz casting rating is pretty hefty, and you can find pool cues that can cast half a pound with a good load curve.
You can try to get an idea of how the rod will work by asking the salesman to hold the end while you bend it. If it bends down to the middle of the rod, it will cast nicely but won't be able to jerk free from weeds or impart action to large muskie type baits. If it's stiff all the way to the tip, you gotta crank like hell to keep the hook set. I like the fight on lighter gear better and tend to more flex in the gear.
I think that for ripping stuff outa weeds, casting bucktails, trolling spinnerbaits. a 1-2 oz casting rating would suit. This would be a m or mh rod with a medium to fast tip.
On the other hand, set the hook, keep your tip up and your line tight!