Shimano Calcutta B

[HookingDreams]

Does anyone have this reel and recommend it?

[Mobasser]

In a round reel guy, using mostly ABUs.  A Calcutta will be my next purchase. Many guys on the forums have these and love them. Great reels! I fished with a friends for several hours and was sold on it. I think they are one of the best

[Catt]

While I do not own a Calcutta"B" I have two 100A models that are 30-35 years old. They both have original bearings & drag washers & performance flawlessly.

[grub_man]

I use a Cardiff 100A, a lower priced little sibling to the Calcutta, and I would not hesitate to use a Calcutta if it fit the budget.  That line has been around for years largely unchanged for a reason.

[RB 77]

Yes and yes. A very solid feeling reel and one of the most durable you will ever find. 

[J Francho]

There's a reason the design has been around for 25+ years.  It's that tough a reel.

[WRB]

On April 20, 2018 at 9:14 PM, HookingDreams said:

Does anyone have this reel and recommend it?

What size and for what lures?

The Cardiff A is about $100 less and the D is about $100 more, the B being the original design with 1 piece machined frame. If you can afford the D you get all of Shimano's upgrades. The Cardiff A for $100 less will do everything the B does except with a cast frame in lieu of machined. 

Tom

 

[Catt]

4 hours ago, J Francho said:

There's a reason the design has been around for 25+ years.  It's that tough a reel.

 

I have one that's about 37 yrs old ?

 

Structural speaking there's no difference strength wise between the die cast Cardiff & cold forged Calcutta.

[Bluebasser86]

I have a couple B Calcuttas that are as tough as a reel gets. Nothing flashy or fancy, they just get the job done. 

[Catt]

9 minutes ago, Bluebasser86 said:

I have a couple B Calcuttas that are as tough as a reel gets. Nothing flashy or fancy, they just get the job done. 

 

Solid as an anvil, versatile as a pair of Channellocks®, & dependable as a 30/30

[Tywithay]

They are awesome reels. Though, I think it's worth $20, or so, for a TE. They're a lot smoother. The B is just a solid fishing machine. Nothing fancy, but they just work.