Which Old Baitcaster Is Worth Buying?

[Polarkraft05]

Im trying to search for an old used baitcaster on the auction website. Im really just looking for a really good deal on an older model reel, since i don't fish very often, and don't fish in tournaments so quality isn't that big of an issue.

The searching would be much easier if i knew which reel models were worth looking at. I know some of them are worthless and aren't even a good deal if they go for $5.

I prefer Quantum as that is what my other two reels are. Shimano would be fine too. Or any others that just stand out as good old reels.

My price range is $50 and under, the lower the better. I plan on making a list of good old model reels and just searching for the next couple months until i find one that doesn't get many bids. 

Its easy to open a bass pro magazine and figure out which new models are nice, and which ones aren't, but when it comes to the 10 year old reels it takes forever to individually search each model trying to determine if its a good reel. 

[Rangerphil]

Search quantum energy pt on eBay there are some nice ones in your price range. I have several and like them.

[ww2farmer]

The older Shimano Bantam Citica's are a good reel, and unless someone wants it real bad can be had for less than $50 often.

[Bass Junkie]

For a Quantum of older vintage, the only one I can reccomend is the Accurist from a few years ago, or the Shaw Grigsby signature series reel, which is the same reel with a different paint scheme. Other older reels in that price range would include a used Daiwa 153HST, which is truly a great reel for anywhere near that money.

[A-Jay]

PM sent

 

A-Jay

[OkeechobeeAngler]

Any of the older Abu Garcias.

[new2BC4bass]

Another good used reel for $50 or less is the Pflueger Trion.  I've got one of each hand.  I picked up a Daiwa Procaster 100HN on closeout a couple years ago.  Although bought for my grandson, I have used it a few times and like it a lot.  It isn't a Zillion or Chronarch, but for the $30 I paid for it I have no complaints at all.  The H2O XPRESS™ Mettle Low-Profile Baitcast Reel has gotten some pretty good reviews, $49.99 new and around $25 (I think) when they have their Reel Riot Sale.  No experience with the Mettle, but want to try one.  My problem is I already have more reels than I should.  Notice I din't say more than I want. 

 

EDIT:  I didn't thing about the older Abus, but I picked up 3 of the Ambassadeur Black Max 1600 round reels as a package deal...$100 for all three.  I consider it one of my best deals.  These reels palm quite well and will throw a light lure into the wind amazingly well.  Of course they don't have the blazing speed so well loved by many.