johnD.

Looks like you got a bad spool. It happens.

Not sure but , I like it.. I have 40 lb rigged up on my rod for 10xd's.

The 100 has a aluminum frame with graphite side plates..The Elite has a aluminum frame with a aluminum side plate on the gear side.

7'6 medium heavy moderate is what I throw them with. 7 ratio or 6 ratio works well. 12 lb yo zuri hybrid for open water , 40 lb braid rippin grass.

Same frame as the last version , Tatula 100 , not the CT. Solid reel , you won't be disappointed.

The Tournament MP is new for 2020 , it's replacing the Tournament MB. The MP has their P2 Super Pinion. https://www.lews.com/casting/tournamentmp

Falcon makes some good one between 6'6 and 7'.

Berkley X9 , 9-Carrier construction with a PE Core.

I have fished both extensively. The MB got geary feeling after a while. The bb1 is still very smooth. Idk why , that's just what happened. The bb1 is a couple of inches per turn slower than the MB and holds more 12 lb mono ,makes a difference if you are long lining or strolling. Ark Tharp Series Rocket Launcher is my go to rod for 5xd to 8xd.

What size crankbaits are you wanting this combo for ? You can get a BB1 5:1 off ebay for about $125 "buy it now". I wouldn't consider the MB for a serious crankin reel.

Without a doubt.

Steez A would be my first pick , Bantam 2nd pick..Digitaka will have the best prices.

Wind knots are caused by human error or a reel that has bad line lay. I fish light spinning reels inshore saltwater all of the time , making very long cast , and never get wind knots. That's using 10 lb invisibraid. Wind tamer has a coating , it wears off pretty quickly.

I look at it like , coke or pepsi , ford or chevy. Can't go wrong with either. I fish both.

Pretty sure Ci4 will be next year or at the bassmasters classic 2020.

Hard to beat Digitaka prices with free shipping. Usually takes 7-9 days.

Citica is discontinued , pick them up while you can.

They sell out and then get more , I've seen their stock appear the next day. Maybe call and they can give you a heads up.

sportsman's outfitters , not warehouse.

Citica 200I , can be had for $99 right now if you look thru the big auction site. Fuego CT , for about $80. Can't go wrong with either.

Tatula 150 P , I picked one up for $119. Aluminum frame and side plate gear side.

Idk if it has arb spool bearings or not , it doesn't really say on the box.The Australian website does say saltwater ready. There are no extra seals. https://www.shimanofish.com.au/content/fish/oceania/au/en/homepage/productdetail.P-BRSLXXT.html

I don't have a regular slx , I can tell you it cast farther or just as far as my curado k. On the same rod , with the same line and lure.

Keep it clean , it will last many many years. Keeping your reels in a rod locker or having covers on them goes a long way when transporting your rods/reels. I have the SLX XT. For $20 more it's worth having the SVS infinity and the extra bearing on the main shaft.

Keep it in a cool dark spot , UV rays will also deteriorate , fluoro , mono and co-polymer lines.