Shimano Symetre FJ vs. Shimano Stradic FI

[Micro]

Is the Stradic $59 better than the Symetre?   How do they stack up against each other?  Trying to decide if I want to spend the extra bucks on a Stradic.

[Craiger12]

I do not have any first hand experience with either of these reels, but why not consider the Saros F as well? Its price falls between that of the Stradic and Symetre, but can be found NIB for ~$100. I have owned the Saros and it was a great reel. Before purchasing the Saros, I spent a long time trying to decide between the Saros and Stradic. In the end I couldn't justify the the extra money for the Stradic. I believe the only difference between the Stradic and the Saros is that the Stradic has "AeroWrap II", which lays line more efficiently on the spool during retrieve and is supposed to allow for improved casting distance.

However, the Saros and Stradic both feature what Shimano calls "Paladin Gear Durability Enhancement", which from what I gather is a precise blend of aluminum and brass to make for the perfect balance of smoothness and durability among the main and pinion gears. Also, they both feature a direct drive handle mechanism so the handle is threaded directly into the main gear. The Symetry does not have either of these features and it has one less total bearing (4 vs. 5). There may be other differences as well, but these were the main differences I considered when making my purchase. As always, it comes down to whether or not the price difference if worth it for you. Personally, I would go with the Saros F, which is why I did. Hope this helps.

[BigGame0892]

I have a Saros as well, and just love it.  I also believe the Saros and Stradic come with an extra spool, whereas the the Symetre does not.  Just something else to consider. 

[bigfruits]

my symetres came with spare spools but i havent bought one in several years.

you can find the stradic fi for $120 shipped online. id get that.

[roadwarrior]

Move up to the CI4

http://www.tackletour.com/reviewchimanostradicci4pg4.html

8-)

[BigGame0892]

my symetres came with spare spools but i havent bought one in several years.

you can find the stradic fi for $120 shipped online. id get that.

Yeah, the Symetres used to have the spare spool.  But, I'm pretty sure they changed that when they started adding the Paladin Gear durability to all the spinning reels. 

That being said, I agree, get a Stradic if you can find one for $120. 

[Dockhead]

I used Sahara's for a long time. Then I got a Symetre and

will never pick up another Sahara.

Then I got a Saros. Wow, like it even better than the Symetre.

I really think it's noticabley smoother. 

I better not get a Stradic. Afraid of what will happen to that Saros.

Oh, and the Saros I picked up for $100 shipped. Same price as a Symetre retail.

Stradic for $120 would be worth it. But I would think you'd be just as happy with the Saros.

[Grey Wolf]

my symetres came with spare spools but i havent bought one in several years.

you can find the stradic fi for $120 shipped online. id get that.

Yeah, the Symetres used to have the spare spool. But, I'm pretty sure they changed that when they started adding the Paladin Gear durability to all the spinning reels.

That being said, I agree, get a Stradic if you can find one for $120.

Also the symetre has major drag issues when it gets wet.

[Flywatersmallie]

I own both a Saros F and Stradic FI. I much prefer the Stradic, I couldn't tell you exactly why, I do though. Then again I've only fished the Saros a couple times, I just got it because I found it for $80 locally. Then again, I paid only $100 for the Stradic, new. There are deals to be had if you look. I don't think you can go wrong with either but the Stradic is indeed worth the extra coin

[Vinny Chase]

It it helps the only spinning reels i own are Symetres....i have never needed anything else. They are not too expensive, but AMAZINGLY smooth at the same time.

[Micro]

I solved the problem.  I bought both.   >

[KYntucky Warmouth]

I solved the problem. I bought both. >

HAHA.....that's usually my solution too

[Hammer 4]

What was wrong with the Sahara..? I have one that I use for fresh, and saltwater fishing..Granted there more you spend , the better they get..I have a Stradic FI coming tomorrow. Still I think the Sahara is a good reel for the $$$.

[heavy M]

Micro Posted on: Today at 6:26pm

I solved the problem. I bought both. >

I bought both too They are both great reels and you will not be disappointed with either.

[northern basser]

I have 2 symetre's and a stradic.  I ended up selling the stradic because I knew it would bring more $ that I could spend on my BC arsenal.  The stradic is better,  but the syme. is not far off.  To me it's like comparing the curado to the citica.