Originally Posted by
gunwhatgun
I agree with skeetbum on the Mitchel reels. Every time I see them on the rack, I ask myself why I don't have one, then I pick one up and remember. A Mitchel, for the money isn't a close competitor, to the Shimano and Daiwa offerings. I have one Pflueger, it is a Supreme 20 or 25, I forget which but it is very small. I chose it because it balanced my Dobyn's rod very well and felt almost as smooth the Regal it was in competition with. The regal was just too heavy and brought the tip up too high for my comfort.
I have never noticed my Saharas being heavy to spin. They are my other "go to" reel. I have 4 Regals and 4 Saharas, I do not have a favorite in the Daiwa vs Shimano race. I picked up a Vanford the other day and fell in love. At that price point I had to wonder if there was something even better. That is what spawned this thread, and subsequently, led me to investigating the JDM market and wondering if a Vanford that leaves Japan is better than the one at Bass Pro?? Weight is my major concern for this reel. The Rod I have built came in at 49g's and I would like to keep this rig as light as possible. Then you have to ask; Is the Vanford really $100 better than the Ultegra? Is that 1oz difference worth the money? Is the Ultegra $75 better than a Legalis/Regal, or Sahara?? I guess your money buys the weight savings.
I know I have thoroughly enjoyed reading everyone's thoughts and musings on what makes a good vs great real and I have learned a lot. I hope this thread goes on a bit longer. I am really enjoying the input.
Let's muse on this; Daiwa and Shimano only, Can be domestic or JDM, $300 "out the door". Must be available for purchase in the next week.
Thoughts??