Looking at this reel. Opinions?

[Brett Hatch]

I have this one in stock now. 1 left. I will also remount the bolt snap using cave line and toss in a custom reel stop at no extra cost.
JR. Tech Reel - Manta Industries & Highseas Millwork Manta Industries & Highseas Millwork

That does look like a nice reel, but it sounds like for the OP, the handle is in the wrong place by 90 degrees.

If I have understood them correctly, picture this: when I hold out my fist with my thumb up (like I'm driving a car), the reel in the OP would feed out directly in front of me, the same direction as my forearm is pointing. The Manta one -- and most other reels I've seen -- would feed up, the direction my thumb is pointing. Or down toward my feet, if I flipped it over.

Do I have that right @Invader? I don't know of a better reel with this configuration, but hopefully characterizing the problem more explicitly will help others to make useful suggestions.

 

[Invader]

No luck other than this one.

 

[broncobowsher]

I was looking through what I have. There is a Highland reel in my older stuff. As built, not correct. But the handle bolts on 180° from where the line exits. I am willing to bet the handle could be unbolted, carefully adjusted (beaten with a hammer while in a vice) and bolted back on.

While not one of the prized high end reels, it still works. I recall the reel is overloaded with line as built. Take some line off it before using it.

 

[jlcnuke]

While we're talking about reels, could anyone explain to me why no reels seem to be designed so that your light will shine forward (assuming using a goodman) while holding the reel to wind the line back up?

 

[Bierstadt]

I have this one in stock now. 1 left. I will also remount the bolt snap using cave line and toss in a custom reel stop at no extra cost.
JR. Tech Reel - Manta Industries & Highseas Millwork Manta Industries & Highseas Millwork

Jim, I don't think OP could use that one without a bit of modification. He basically just has a palm to work with to hold it... actually, it would probably work if a bar or plate was added below the main handle so OP could jam his hand in place. The handle already has a spring plate mounted. It would be hander to drop if it jammed, but easier to use. @Invader what do you think? I can't speak for Jim, but he could probably make a mod like that at a reasonable cost if it would work for you.

 

[Julius SCHMIDT]

Here they are

Redirect Notice

 

[Jack Hammer]

While we're talking about reels, could anyone explain to me why no reels seem to be designed so that your light will shine forward (assuming using a goodman) while holding the reel to wind the line back up?

Halcyon makes one one. Honestly though, try changing your technique, it's really not that difficult to keep a light on a Goodman steady, stable, and pointed forward while winding up a reel or a spool.

 

[garyh]

Aluminum and FRP (Fiber Reinforced Plastic).

https://ww2.scubapro.com/en-GB/HKG/accessories/other-gear/products/scubapro-reel.aspx


As a side note (and why I picked this one out of the bunch) I am unable to curl the fingers in my left hand due to a resection that occurred in 2016, and removed 90% of the muscle in my forearm, and jacked up my tendons. I qualified scuba in this condition, and have progressed through sidemount and AN/DP just fine with some modifications. This setup will allow me to hold it and reel/unspool as necessary, while maintaining positive control.

I have tried holding standard reels, and would have to modify them into a similar configuration to make them work, but this one is already setup.

Any thoughts to durability/longevity, ease of use, etc?

If it works for you sure go ahead and get one, IMHO 2 many bells and whistles, keep it simple

 

[Endler's]

Take a look at Larry Green Cave reel. They are highly regarded.

This Scubaboard post has better pictures at different angles: Closed: Ralph Hood / Larry Green Reel - Shipwreck / Cave / Cavern - SOLD

Luckily for you, they are made/sold right next door! Good excuse for dive trip, to fondle/handle yourself!

Chipola Divers 5010 Fort Rd, Greenwood, FL​

Eagle's Nest Technical Divers - High Springs, FL
(This is Larry's Site)

 

[Capt Jim Wyatt]

I have a few of these available here in cave country.