new(er) braided lines...

[flechero]

I'm going to give braid another shot.  I keep hearing about the new fireline "radial" braid.  Compared to other braids, what is new or better about it?

The 3 lines I'm looking at are the stren sonic braid, the new fireline and sufix braid.  All 3 claim to be round, all 3 seem to be well liked.  Anyone know of any appreciable differences in them?  If it matters, I think I'm going to switch 1 BC and 1 spinning reel to braid. (so if any of the lines listed were better or worse on either type, I'd like to know what or why)

I'm listening with an open mind...

[Pantera61]

Well, basically the radial lines are ... round.  They reduce digging into the spool.  It cast more smoothly.  It lays on the spool better.  It's also quieter.

I have been using 8 strand lines from Japan for the past 3 years and the difference is night and day.  The Fireline radial uses the same technology.

[flechero]

Does that mean the sonic and sufix aren't actually round?  

[RoLo]

It's my belief that regardless of manufacturer claims, the more strands incorporated into the braid,

the rounder the line (hence radial). As previously mentioned, rounder line is less prone to burrowing,

offers maximal casting distance (less friction) and better handling overall.

Flechero, I think you're on the right track with Berkley Fireline braid (not fused).

I recently switched from PowerPro braid to Fireline braid and the latter is just slightly stiffer (due to increased strands),

but seems to become limper with use. I would suggest Fireline "Tracer" braid,

which is the same radial line with alternating bands of Hi-vis and Lo-vis line (every 30 inches).

Roger

[Pantera61]

Does that mean the sonic and sufix aren't actually round?

I can't speak to those two lines.  I have only used the Fireline Radial in 30 and 50 lb test.

[DINK WHISPERER]

I have used the new FireLine Braid and suffix and liked the FL a lot better! Is is way limper and casts further. Also, the color fades a lot slower than the others! IMO it is way stronger as well. I hooked a huge gator(accident) with the FL in 65lb and i made that sucker do a couple back flips!

[Wayne P.]

Pantera61, I use the Samurai Braid too. It has a smaller diameter than any other similar pound test superline and is softer (costs a few more dollars too). Neither of the 8 strand weave lines are as noisy going thru rod guides under stress as the "old" technology.

The Sonic is similar to Stealth in the package, but ages differently.

[fourbizz]

There is Sufix braid, and all the sad lines that wish they were Sufix.

[dodgeguy]

the fireline braid blows all others away.if using baitcast get 50 or 65 lb.on spinning i use 20 lb.sonic braid is rough compared to sufix or fireline braid.the fireline braid is the roundest most user friendly braid made.