Reel Reccomendation?

[djcheburashka]

I'm ready to purchase my first real reel (as opposed to safety spool).

What brands and models do folks reccomend? Are any particularly less likely to tangle than others?

 

[pkdiver]

I really like my Reef Survivor reel. Highly recommended IMO.

 

[Rainer]

Halcyon or Salvo 400'.

 

[djcheburashka]

I take it there's a consensus that enclosed reels are a bad idea?

And actually, looking at these: Are the Salvo and Halcyon really neutrally bouyant??? That seems like a real advantage to me, although otherwise the enclosed Reef Survivor ones do look good because it looks like the tensioning screw is easier to work with smurf gloves on.

 

[Ocean One]

Take a look at the Manta SR Reel The no freefeed no birdnesting feature sold me!

 

[danclem]

Second the Manta Reel: Home Page .

The only modification we made was to put a small rubber ball behing the loop knott at the beginning of the line. For fumble fingers like me it prevents reeling the line back through the lead.

Have Fun!

Dan

 

[djcheburashka]

Take a look at the Manta SR Reel The no freefeed no birdnesting feature sold me!

But is it true? Does it really work or is it one more thing to fail?

 

[sclakediver]

There's no such thing as a jam proof reel. You can manage to birdsnest any of them. I've tried a few reels and like the Ralph Hood the best. I like the salvo 400' alot, although I'm going to replace the line with #36 for ocean diving. From the reels I have used, I prefer the Ralph Hood and the Salvo. I looked at the Manta a couple of times, and found it too gimicky for my taste. Personal preference is what it's all about, try to borrow some if you can. I would suggest you stay away from a metal handle with a metal screw, as they tend to corrode. Good luck with your decision.

 

[SlowRain]

I have a diverite sidewinder what they call "Primary side-handled reel" w/ 250' of #36 on it (I am not a caver and IMHO I think #36 is better for open ocean diving). You can also get it with 400' of #24. I really like it and recommend it. Having said that I have a friend who has a Salvo and it is really nice! Not enough difference for me to go buy a Salvo, but had I played with one before the diverite, I would have bought it instead.

Probably just personal opinion, but I really like the sidehandle design better than "classic" design...but I imagine that is personal preference.

 

[mfalco]

Reef Survivor ones do look good because it looks like the tensioning screw is easier to work with smurf gloves on.

I think you find that once you start using a reel, you won't use the tensioning screw.


I would personally stay away from any gimmicky reels. If you are wearing gloves look for one with a big handle.