Why new model 500 Shimano reels suck !
And some 1000 size reels too .
Why does it seem that the newer offerings from Shimano not perform as well as the older models . and they cost more .
I’m talking about reels in the $100 and less category.
I’ve been comparing specifications of older Shimano 500 reels, that I own to newer models I’ve acquired the last year or so .
These are the models and specs .
500 size reels Weight Ratio
Shimano Symetre FL 500 6.1oz 4.7/1
Shimano Sahara FE 500 6.2oz. 4.7/1
Shimano Sahara FJ 500 6.0oz 5.6/1
Shimano Nasci FC 500 6.0oz 5.6/1
Shimano Sienna FD 500 6.0oz 4.7/1
Shimano Sienna FG 500 6.3oz 5.6/1
You can see that even though the “ new lighter reels “ aren’t that much lighter than the older ones and in the low priced Sienna , the weight went up .
The big problem I’ve had with the newer models is they will bind up when you apply pressure on them .
Although the new ones are tighter specs and are smooth , it takes more start up force to get the reel to turn . Not good .
I think I’ve discovered the problem . They have tried to increase the speed of these small reels to where they just bind up .
Personally, I like a slow winding reel , especially for swimming jigs , which is what I do 90% of the time . I think panfish like a slow moving lure most of the time .
IMO , Shimano has a better drag than does Daiwa , but Daiwa has done a better job of smoothing their reels up . I need to check their gear ratios .
I’ve found Daiwa drags , tighten and loosen too quickly with lesser clicks than Shimano’s do .Smoothest and ease of start up has switched me over to Daiwa reels the last couple years , but I’ve had to go up to 1000 size reels . Daiwa doesn’t make a good $100 , 500 size reel IMO . They have a few 750 size reels but I haven’t tried one yet.
I like a small reel , it just feels more Ultralight to me even if the weights are similar. But , you’re not going to get a 6oz 1000 reel without paying more than $100 .
I’ve dug out my old Shimano Symetre and Sahara reels and oiled them up and spooled them with 2# P-line Floroclear.
I was looking at buying a Shimano Vanford 500 , but was afraid of making a $250+ mistake , because it too is a 5.6/1 ratio reel .
Why new model 500 Shimano reels suck !
Randy,
I think the answer is no but do the higher end reels like the vanquish suffer from these issues?
The issues on these lower end reels wouldnt stop you from purchasing a vanquish, would it?
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Why new model 500 Shimano reels suck !
Quote:
Originally Posted by
gillchaser999
Thanks Skeet , I just got a tracking number on the Soare BB 22 500SPG , but the delivery date hasn’t been updated.
This will be my first shallow spool 500 reel . I like the slower retrieve , so it shouldn’t have the issues I’m having with the latest Sahara and Nasci 500 reels .
I would have considered Soare SR 500 but it’s out of stock and about $100 more , if it were in stock .
The new reel should arrive the first of next week Digitaker ships them out quickly if they’re in stock . And they usually have the best prices .
I’ll let you know what it’s like when I get it .
Of late Digitaka shipping has been excellent. I was surprised my last two orders arrived sooner than the expected delivery date. Hoping that will be the case for you too.
I have the Soare XR in 500 and also 2000. The former does not have micro module gearing, like the other sizes. Its still a good reel. The 2000 is a little better.
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