pick up an issue of BassWestUsa. In it Jerry mentions about people sending him raptor hardbaits with broken fins and tails. He says it's caused by overhead casting and letting the lure hit the water without slowing down the spool. He suggests throwing side-arm and slowing the bait before it lands. Supposedly he's never had any problems with his personal baits breaking.

hope that helps

I didn't even read the second post lol, my bad.