Dive Rite, Manta and Halcyon reels

[hongrace]

What do you guys think of the Dive Rite Sidewinder, Manta Jr, and Halcyon Pathfinder reels? Pros and cons?

Many thanks.

 

[Aquaventurewhitetip]

For me I have always been happy with a 50mtr OMS wreck reel, a finger spool and Big yellow with 70 mtr line. Covers most of my underwater needs.
What do you want the reel for?
Sounds a silly question but its not really..

 

[hongrace]

Thanks, AVWT. I primarily use the reel for sending up DSMB and deco. Occasionally for wreck.

 

[Aquaventurewhitetip]

Have look at a reel with a ratchet. Something you can use to control the line as it pays out to the surface with you SMB gathering speed. A wreck reel will more likely have an adjustable drag/brake or clutch type mechanism on it. Not best for controlling your SMB on, but great when correctly used for paying out a line behind you into a wreck or an overhead environment so it remains under tension.
Finger spool used for lost line searches in nil viz or an easy way to deploy an SMB on a gentle clear water reef dive.