BigMoneyGrip

I do see how the shims can get dorked up if you over tighten them. I have machined some out of brass that work real good. I also made a punch and die that makes a dimple in them to give them the "spring". This seems to be a real smooth setup.

The "debris" you speak of that could be caused by the friction material, can easily get by a shield. Without a shield, whatever lube you use will eventually run out the bottom. With the shield, at least there is something that has a chance to hold in whatever you put in. And I already know, the shield isn't "sealed" to the race like a seal is so, technically, it "could" run out the bottom of the bearing. As long as I have fished with Shimano, I have NEVER had the the shim wear enough to produce ANY type of contaminates so I rule that out. Chances of this happening are slim if you maintain your equipment. I try to use common sense when I change something that someone else designed. Using this approach, I've been very successful.

I'm not sure how the Daiwas are made but if they're like the Shimanos, nothing can get behind them. The bearing is enclosed and the spool shaft is in the middle. I'd say you're good. The only problem is there is nothing to hold lube in as the shield does that.

If you had the Optimus XLT in a left, I'd get two right now. I really want to try one, but I need a left. Thanks, Scott.

My buddy's ear. With a rat-l-trap. It shredded his ear and he must have bled out a quart. He was mad at me but he walked in my line of fire. We were back fishing the next day laughing about it.

I haven't used any of that, Snookie. Falcon Cara T7 Micro 6' 10" MH Fast Shimano Curado 50E InvizX 8lbs

I have the topwater rod and it is a really good "all around" rod. I have a Citica E on it.

I have the Falcon Cara with the micros. I really like it and have no complaints. Mine is the 7'2" with a fast tip. Its a nice rod for plastics.

Yep, Shimano uses grease in the 50e bearings. I cleaned mine and used Kroil for lube. It really makes it easier to pitch with this reel after doing this.

Costa Del Mar makes a million different styles because everyone has a different shaped head. It is best if you can find a local retailer and see which pair fits you best. Costa classifies them in sizes, such as medium or large, but that doesn't mean that one style in large fits like another style in large. Just go see what fits you the best. You can also see which lens you like the best. Once you find your pair, check around on prices. I ended up getting mine straight from the factory. The price was just as good, plus no customers had a chance to jack with them. For me, it was the Harpoon in tortoise with the 580 lens in copper, best money I've spent.

How hard is it to just answer his question? He was lightly "bouncing" the lure on the surface of the water.

I have the 580's in copper and can't immagine it getting any better.

I just read in the news where Bass Pro was starting on a two year project to renovate the Pyramid into a Superstore. I just hate the idea of driving through the ghetto to buy a sack of rubber worms. Maybe they can clean the area up some.

The reel weighs less than a pound???? All of mine do. I could spool them with bailing wire and come in under a pound. And the rod weighs less than a pound??? All of mine do. Ike needs to get some better numbers.

Oscar, it would be best it you could try on a few pair. They all fit different. You need to find a pair that fits your face. Like shoes, you're the only one that knows if they fit.

I have the copper 580's and can't imagine a lens any better. I got mine for fishing, but I wear them daily. The definition is unreal with these.

I have mine filled with 8lbs InvizX and really like it.

Sometimes they will "ram" it a few times to "finish it off". Maybe try waiting after they blow up on it, and twitch it a few more times, see what happens.

I used it, as directed, and didn't notice any difference. I still use it every trip, though. And spray it on before I store my reels away.

Owner twist lock. End of book.

I've had good luck with them.

Black jitter bug.

I wonder what states have banned it? And I bet if you told them you were from that state, they would send you all you could buy!

Get the cablz and don't look back!

Has anyone tried the "tomato" color? I got a pack but have yet to try it. One of the coolest looking colors I've seen.