Delaware Valley Tackle

I stand corrected, the sx spool changed with the 16 01 version.

It depends on what you're calling a small swimbait. For what I envision, I'd probably throw them on the same rod as a spinner-bait. For a deep cranking rod a Lamiglas SR705 R can't be beat. The current version is XCF 705R but I'm not positive if that is on the exact same blank or not.

It's not true that fluoro has no stretch either. I can see the sensitivity aspect of fluoro in certain situations where you're fishing on semi-slack line though. You're going to have some stretch unless you go with braid.

IMO absolutely for the centrifugal breaking alone. It is much easier to handle. Add the infini-spool design and other little details and it's $30 well spent.

The loomis rods are built on high quality blanks with high quality components, no doubt about it. However, they are still mass produced and suffer from the inherent QC issues as any other product. As a rod builder who buys components in much smaller lots than a big company like Shimano/Gloomis, I can assure you that a hefty share of the $500 price tag is the Loomis name and marketing, which includes the much debated replacement program. I strongly encourage anyone looking to invest in a high end rod to consider working with a competent custom builder.

The step up to the STX is even better. The added centrifugal braking is much easier to deal with.

It may just be dirty. If it's like the Revos the AR is press fit into the side case. The case needs to come off and you can spray the AR out with carb cleaner or similar solvent. Let it dry and oil it lightly with a cotton swab. The AR collar should be checked for damage as well. If the AR is damaged you'll need a new side plate from ABU. This will require a fairly indepth disassembly so if you're unsure send it in and I'll through the whole thing. As for what caused the problem, it's impossible to say without an inspection.

Ignorance really is bliss! lol

Any 10 mm box wrench can be used in place of the factory wrench. Rem Oil, 3 in1 or even sewing machine oil can be used on the bearings. You can also visit a tackle shop and grab some Oust reel oil. TG's Rocket Fuel (Yellow) can be ordered online.

You found a great deal there. Maybe not leaps and bounds better than the other two but you wont be disappointed.

You do now, it'll be there in a couple days!

I can see the advantage on paper, but in actual use I suspect the benefit to be minimal over another reel at that price point. I'm interested to hear more from actual users.

Another thing that makes these discussions difficult is that there is no industry standard for rod specs, it's all subjective. It would be easier to comment in detail if you are interested in a specific technique or two.

RW, U40 cork sealant will do a nice job and make the cork easier to claen in the future.

Your right on the basic definition of max drag. The BCX is on the lower end of ABU round reels which may explain some of why the drag isn't the most powerful. Drag power is determined by a combination of design features including area, drag washer material, number of washers in the stack and pressure applied. A big saltwater reel would typically need a heavier drag but a low pro fresh water reel can be designed to have pretty substantial drag power. 8-10 lbs of drag is more than adequate for bass fishing so either way you're covered. ps: The drag is meant to protect the line and reel from damage. I do not recommend forcing the crank to test the drag or else you may do damage to gears etc.

There is no "Right" or "Proper" balance point. It is a totally personal preference.

The reels you have listed are inexpensive but will not have a long life. The Prodigy or BPS Pro Qualifier on sale or a higher end second hand reel will serve you much better.

Yup, less than positive clutch engagement is a common issues in the Daiwas. A minor nusiance in an otherwise very smooth reel. A good cleaning and lube will do wonders as ghotti said. Don't tackle that if you're not real sure of yourself though.

They may be testing the waters for a broader change in replacement policy, or looking for a way to entice border line budget people to step up a notch. Marketing is a huge piece of the cost of a production rod and replacement programs fall within that.

Bubba, Are you making your own decals or dealing with a vendor? I like the way you spruce up the mhx decal.

Oh but there is a charge, hidden in the price of every rod they sell that's the point of the Powell promotion.

The tension cap is too loose. Tighten it just until the side to side movement of ythe spool stops then adjust for weight of the lure. If he cap is tight and you still have slop,something got lost. Make sure the spring is seated down onto the bearing. If not it may keep the cap from tightening.

'Coon hunting with hounds is fun until they get on a bobcat that jumps from every tree as you get close and they're off again or a fox takes'em to the next county.

St Croix Mojo - MBGC78MHM Big Crankster 7'8" MH Mod. 1 10 - 20 3/8 - 1 6.3 4 $ 120 Or: I can build you one close to your budget after a member discount.

I probably see 20 batcasters come in for service for every 1 spinning reel. It may or may not be the case here but in general, spinners are definetely overlooked when it come to maintenance, which is a shame.