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It sounds like you are definately using spinning gear. The use of a long leader with spinning gear is usually a problem when you bring the leader back to the spool. The snap off is probably because the knot is catching a guide. I suggest you shorten the leader and use a swivel between the leader and the braid. Also, concentrate on smoothing out your casting motion. Sometimes a snapping motion will cause snapoffs as the line clears the rod.
With conventional gear a long leader is fine. I always run my shock leader back to the reel and a few turns on the spool itself. The Alberto is a fine knot. I have not had snap offs using that knot. It can be used with most any combinations of weight lines. On a couple of reel and line combinations I use 40 lb. PP and a 30 lb shock leader and on another reel I use 65 lb. PP and a 50 lb. shock leader.
As far as other braids go - I have used Stren, Suffix, Fireline, Whiplash, and Power pro. All have their good and bad points I think it is up to the individual to make that choice. Oh - also - I have recently heard good things about the new Berkley braid. There have been many threads about braid. Do a search and you will be totally confused.
Get rid of the cannon and buy a roll of hocky tape. A wrap or two saves the fingers and allows better controll of the cast.
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