Pinnacle Optimus Owners........

[The Rooster]

I'm looking for a reel with all metal build to possibly handle striper fish while I'm fishing for whitebass at the river. I thought about going with the Abu Garcia Ambassadeur reels, but they're too bulky and heavy. Then I remembered the Optimus, which is just like other standard low profile bass reels, but is all metal in build, even the sideplates. So I'm interested in hearing what you think of your Pinnacle Optimus baitcast reels in terms of performance, durability of build as well as finish, quality of build as well as finish, smoothness, drag,comfort, just anything at all really. Thanks.

[roadwarrior]

Posted November 04 2011 - 05:08 AM

Also posted in "Rods & Reels"

Two months ago I acquired the new Pinnacle reel, the Optimus XLT.

I selected a matching rod, the DHC5-701CAMCB which is primarily

designed for jerkbaits and light crankbaits. However, this combination

is much more versatile than that! I would definitely include topwater,

spinnerbaits and any "moving" application, especially small to medium

weight swimbaits.

The Optimus XLT is a work of art. X-Bone metal frame with gold titanium

side covers complimented by gunmetal grey, silver and black. Sporting a

gear ration of 7.3:1, the reel is smooth and fast. Inside we have 11

double-shielded stainless steel bearings. The drive gear is comprised

of duralumin alloy which is 70% lighter and 20% stronger than brass.

Braking consists of tandem cast control, both magnetic and centrifugal

anti-backlash systems with external dial settings. Casting is a dream

and the retreive is exceptional. As an added bonus, the Optimkus XLT

features a "quick Flip" button that allows the spool to be engaged

instantly.

[Diggy]

I wonder why no lefty retrieves on their line

[The Rooster]

Mm-hm......and that review above from an otherwise die hard Shimano guy. Now I'm impressed.

I was already impressed by the looks and description of the reel. Seems you get an awful lot for the price, and you know how it goes, if it's too good to be true then it usually is, but this might be the exception to that rule. I'm thinking about trying one of these out.

[northern basser]

I have the xlt and I'm pretty impressed with it so far. Casts excellent and the drag is VERY smooth. I'm especially impressed with the drag.

[roadwarrior]

I will update the review after fishing the reel more this spring and summer.

Out of the box, it's perfect!

[Jiggen]

I have an XT and have fished it a lot. I am also a shimano believer, however for the money I don't believe you can buy a better reel. Actually most other reels I have in that price range don't even come close to the Optimus. I have heard pro's and cons on their spinning reels, but nothing but positives on their baitcasters. Jim