Jax,
looks can be deceiving. One of the things I liked about the flat raps is that they dive deeper than original rapalas. My largest smallie last year in the Q came on one.

I would wager a strong bet that the large flat rap that has caught my attention would run in the 8' to 10' range which is perfect for my shoreline running style of paddling that I generally employ.

Are you sure it was the flat raps that have had "issues" with the lips? Curious as their lips protrude only very slightly.

What I really liked about the smaller versions was the sideways roll they exhibit when snapped. With their wider profile that snap really creates a lot of flash in the water......a key strike provoker IMO. You really should try one.........a 1st rate lure.

The other thing I liked about the large version (and why I'm so high on it) is that the wobble was strong enough to overcome the heavy FC leader that I employ while trolling an "all species lure". Much has been made of trolling wire and still catching any and all fish and the idea being it makes little or no difference. With all due respect, ( there are many accomplished anglers on this site that hold that belief) I personally believe that is just wishful thinking. If it were so the pro walleye circuit would be using heavy line for any application. It is common knowledge that the lightest and thinnest line generally will prove most productive especially for the larger specimens.

Can you be productive trolling wire? Yes, absolutely. But I can't help but wonder how many larger fish turned away. Neither side of the issue can prove much of anything unless they troll side by side but truth has a certain ring to it and using wire for big walleyes seems, at least in my mind, an error. Besides, I lose very few lures to northerns anyway even trolling straight mono (zero last year in 9 days).

Anyway, I liked the big rap with 80lb FC. Looked menacing and challenging. Something to get a big fishes attention and make it worth while to get her big fat butt in motion.