Ancient Mariner Reels

[MakoMatt]

Hello Lep, one of the guys in my club has one of these models, not sure which one it is, but he loves it. I’m curious as to what your thoughts are about them.

 

[Leprechaun]

Chinesium specials. Good enough I guess, but once they break, the parts are probably scarce. I believe that the guy that sells them is a local, so maybe he does keep some parts around. Bearings are easily found elsewhere, no matter the size, but I would ask before purchasing, especially regarding gear sets.

I'm going thru this right now with my Daiwa Zillion reels. Daiwa stock parts for 7-10 years, once they are gone, that's it, game over. I have three of these Zillions, all carrying the 4.9:1 gearset. Granted they are right around 10 seasons old, but all are in super-mint condition and so I'm trying to keep a few sets of gears "in stock," just in case they need them. None to found, nationally. I did find two pinions (which I bought), but you can't just replace one of the two gears, that will not help a grinding reel. I'm about to reach out to Japanese sources to see if they can locate a couple of main gears.

This is why I always preach the same story - when looking at somewhat obscure reels, ESPECIALLY from China, ask about parts. If Shimano and Daiwa don't keep good inventory over the long term, there is no way in hell a retailer of Chinese products will. Unless this doesn't matter to the buyer, of course. Use until it breaks, then just toss it into the trash and get another - seems to be the thing nowadays.

 

[MakoMatt]

Thanks Pete, I visited their website, and yes, the owner appears to be a local guy. I couldn’t find anywhere on the site where the reels are made but I think he alludes that he has a machinist background………. Which made me feel that ”he” makes the reels. I think he said he had spare parts as well.

thanks again for your insight I think I’ll stay away from those reels.

 

[Leprechaun]

So many really good reels out there these days. Lots to choose from, with quality at really good price points. Over the past dozen or so years there has been a on-going trickle-down of features and functions from the highest-end reels to the more "popularly priced" versions.

For example, look at any of the current line of spinning reels from any of the four major reel makers. All are really good pieces, many starting at only $100. The Daiwa BG series and the Shimano Spheros SW Inshore are in that range, and I would be happy to own either - though I'm not a fan of the zinc gears in the BG, its been a solid performer for many, many people.