Tatula Vs T3 Ballistic

[GaterB]

Has anyone had a chance to compare these two reels? I know the Tatula is very new, but with the Ballistic on sale right now, they're in the same price range. I'm just wondering about smoothness, casting, etc... If this has already been discussed please just post the link. I've looked but haven't found a direct comparison on these two. I'm interested in hearing opinions from people who have experienced both generations of the T Wing system. Thanks!

[Smallmouth Hunter]

Ballistic will not be a long term reel, no matter what anyone tells you. Zaion is not as strong as aluminum, and it is as simple as that.

Also, the hood mechanism is more vulnerable to damage compared to the rotating levelwind/worm gear of the tatula.

 

Ballistic

Pros:

1. 7.5 oz
2. 3D magforce
3. more ergonomic
4. Free floating spool (spool is still heavy, not sure of exact weight)
5. clicking CC knob

Cons

1. Zaion frame and gear side side-plate (not as durable as aluminum)
2. Riveted knobs = cheapy feeling, especially for a reel that retails $250
3. Vulnerable hood
4. Grooving problems have been common on this reel

Tatula

Pros

1. Aluminum frame and gear side side-plate = more durable
2. air rotation (extra bearing on drive shaft, more precisely machined gears, bearing supported pinion gear) which is VERY noticable.
3. Single bearing (upgradable) knobs on handle (2 bearings in the handle total)
4. more clicks on magforce dial
5. Better TWS
6. longer handle

Cons

1. 7.9 oz (though doesn't feel this heavy)
2. Magforce z is not quite as good as 3D, but it is one of the best braking systems and there's no doubt about that.
3. Plastic star drag
4. non-clicking cc knob
5. Has a shimano-like spool with extended shaft (not a big deal at all, just no aftermarket spools). Is about equal with the t3b spool in weight.
6. Less ergonomic, but is not hard to palm at all IMO. I can wrap my whole hand around it easily.

[GaterB]

Thanks that's exactly what I was looking for!

[michael68w]

I prefer aluminum frames so that's why i picked the tatula over the ballistic. The .4 oz difference in weight isnt so dramatic. The ballistic easier to palm but just isnt built as sturdy. Also as stated above Diawa has re worked the T wing system on the tatula and in my mind it just plain works better then those found on the ballistic. Both are awesome and both can be had at a reasonable price since the ballistics are still on sale but i will say that you can find the tatula new on Ebay for around 119.00 not sure how the prices are for the ballistics when it comes to ebay.

[bass1980]

Internet spreads like wild fire.......

T3 platform only caused groove on TT's test because the tester used a spiral wrap rod. I used braids on my T3B for a few outings, no damage at all. It actually performed better with braid, power pro SS. Even hauled a bass froggin in thick pads. Zion feel different, but unless you guys are landing 15lb bass in thick slop the frame isn't going to flex and even that it probably wouldn't.

[GaterB]

Internet spreads like wild fire.......

T3 platform only caused groove on TT's test because the tester used a spiral wrap rod. I used braids on my T3B for a few outings, no damage at all. It actually performed better with braid, power pro SS. Even hauled a bass froggin in thick pads. Zion feel different, but unless you guys are landing 15lb bass in thick slop the frame isn't going to flex and even that it probably wouldn't.

 

I haven't been concerned about the grooving issue anymore since first asking about the T3's. I think Daiwa should have complained to TackleTour about that picture in their review. That grooving definitely cost them sales on T3 reels because they used that spiral wrapped rod. Amazing how negatives get so blown up but the positives of a product are often overlooked.

[Smallmouth Hunter]

Internet spreads like wild fire.......

T3 platform only caused groove on TT's test because the tester used a spiral wrap rod. I used braids on my T3B for a few outings, no damage at all. It actually performed better with braid, power pro SS. Even hauled a bass froggin in thick pads. Zion feel different, but unless you guys are landing 15lb bass in thick slop the frame isn't going to flex and even that it probably wouldn't.

There were more cases of grooving outside of the tt review, and I realize he was using spiral guides in the tt review..

Grooving is user error (explained below), but it is easier to make a groove on this reel that others.

 

Grooving only occurs when the user backlashes (or something else that causes there to be a lot of slack line) then reels in the slack with the line going through his fingers at a steep angle to the bar that is in the front of the reel, which causes grooving. It also can happen with spiral guides (or possibly other rods where the first line guide is too close) causing the line to rub against the front bar (don't know what else to call it) and groove.

[Smallmouth Hunter]

Internet spreads like wild fire.......

T3 platform only caused groove on TT's test because the tester used a spiral wrap rod. I used braids on my T3B for a few outings, no damage at all. It actually performed better with braid, power pro SS. Even hauled a bass froggin in thick pads. Zion feel different, but unless you guys are landing 15lb bass in thick slop the frame isn't going to flex and even that it probably wouldn't.

Also, even daiwa admitted that the frame was vulnerable to flexing after a year or so of use and that it is rather common.. The zaion is just not as strong as aluminum.

[webertime]

How is the hood more prone to damage on a T3???

 

How is three more moving pieces on the level wind is better?  

 

Zaion is a composite, and very strong.  I'd love to see the analytical information that shows it's weaker than aluminum...  I spent half my life in the cycling and ski industry and composites are stronger than many many aluminum alloys, and the alloys that are super strong are prohibitively expensive for a reel. Helicopter blades, racing cars, snowboard bindings, bicycles built to be thrown down mountains...  all structures built to withstand high stresses and if the failed, the results would kill people.  A composite reel frame is easily as strong as an anger would need.  

 

My bet is the Tatula's width and fit make it the decade's TD Advantage.

[webertime]

Also, even daiwa admitted that the frame was vulnerable to flexing after a year or so of use and that it is rather common.. The zaion is just not as strong as aluminum.

Provide proof of both please.  They just came out with 2 other T3 versions in Japan, including an Ito model...  that's a he'll of an investment into a product with the issues you claim they said.

[mjseverson24]

i have the T3B and I really like it, I have not used the tatula, but it also looks like a great reel. I feel they are designed for two very different situations, the T3B is a better casting reel, with a higher max gear ratio (8:1) which makes it great for pitching and flipping, as well as casting cranks/spinners/swimjigs(the lower ratios like 6:1) etc... the tatula has an aluminum frame and gear sideplate, and longer more powerful handles with an improved t-wing design, i see this reel doing better for punching, frogs, a-rig, big swimbaits, and other big baits where the solid feel of aluminum might give an angler more confidence. two reels for two different jobs, each should do theirs very well in my opinion. 

 

Mitch

[bass1980]

Confidence is the word. Zion feels different, but could it stand the pressure of people pulling 4lbers, absolutely. The feel of Zion automatically makes people think it's brittle. It's a tough market, Zion and Ci4 is not strong enough, magnesium is too expensive, and aluminum is too heavy.

 

Yes I am aware a few people had issues with grooving when first launched. Weather it was user error or Daiwa fixed it, the mass T3/B users doesn't even think twice about the grooving issues. There's actually a T3 enthusiast group and they all have dismissed the grooving issue in other forums. I did my research before buying the reel. My two current T3 I won't be using braids as one is for finesse and one is for small moving baits but I wouldn't hesitate.

 

If Zion or the hood makes anyone even worry a bit then do get the Tatula as I'm sure it is a nice reel. Like I said the only common complaint I hear about it is the width of the reel. I can post up a really nice picture of a guy comparing the Tatula to the Zillion.

[rippin-lips]

Please post that pic. I own a zillion and steez already and there's a difference in width between them. I want to get a tatula but if it's a lot wider I nay have to rethink it a bit. Thanks

[bass1980]

Ok this is not my picture, it is from TT. If anyone or the owner wants me to take the picture off let me know and I will. The overall width is about the same but only near the top is different. In a game of millimeters to some people it makes a difference. Other than that the reel is very close in the same size. I would guess people with larger hands wouldn't notice much difference. I say go to a store and feel for yourself.

[Grantman83]

I sold my tatula because of that width up front and the jutting brake dial which on the zillion is recessed. I Wrap my pointer finger around the front of the reel and it is exactly where the difference is biggest. Got a t3 and it is much better for how I palm a reel.

The zaion feels different but so does magnesium and I don't feel they are under powered in any way shape or form.

[Hogsticker]

I pick the Tatula over the Ballistic 10 times out of 10. I would pick the T3 over the Tatula Type R 10 times out of 10. The T3 provides a unique one of a kind casting experience making it a joy to fish with. The Zaion material doesn't concern me the least. I have small hands and the T3 palms like a dream. Lesser expensive reels made with cheaper composite materials are more of a valid concern. I think the regular Tatula for moving baits and the T3 for any light to medium plastic jig work are pretty good.

[Smallmouth Hunter]

A daiwa rep said that a user would notice extreme wear and tear on the zaion material after a year of fishing or so. I believe he was talking about fishing heavy cover though.

[ToledoEF]

Ive been using my t3b since they came out. The heaviest stuff my area has to offer. No problems with braid or flex and I have pulled some nice bass out of some nasty salad. Love my t3b. Like my tatula r so far but will be getting a few t3s.

[Crankinstein]

After holding both in my hand I decided to go with the Tatula. Personally I thought they both seemed liked really good reels but the choice to me was more about user preference and I just liked the handle and the knobs on the Tatula a little more and I liked how the TWS didn't have the hood style opening. As most people have already mentioned I really don't think there is any disadvantage to the hood but I just liked the new TWS style mechanism better. I feel like its the next step of improvement for the system and just has a more natural feel. Again as mentioned before some people liked the t3 because of that different unique feel. In the end I say hold them side by side and pick the one you like best because their both quality reels.