Delaware Valley Tackle

The difference between the two models would more accurately be described as spool capacity rather than spool size. The arbor is not that much larger as to have any real affect on line handling.

The response above is what I'd expect from a good company. You should have no problem getting a resolution.

Looks like you made a nice purchase. Just wanted to add that there is no such thing as a "true xxxx size" reel. The reel companies stay somewhat in tune for shopper comparison but there is no standard , it's all subjective on the part of the manufacturer.

The fit and finish was above average on the ones I've seen as well. Nice little off the rack rods. I find myself moving more and more toward ML power for spinning rods.

Fast set epoxy is the wrong way to do this repair. Rod guides are held in place with a thread winding and the epoxy protects the thread and incidentally also bonds everything together. Epoxy finish is thin and slow curing to self level as the rod is turned. Guide replacement is about a $10 job for a rod builder. If this is a nice rod you may want to go that route. If you decide to DIY shoot me an email and I'll direct you best I can.

Any defect in the blank would show itself upon the first couple uses. Any failure after that is due to mishandling/accident/error etc. Extended warranties on rods is marketing and a type of insurance policy that everyone pays for and some use. The idea of the Rage line is to provide a quality rod at a lower price point, hence the SCIII blank with foreign labor, alternative grips and shorter "warranty". Still a good deal for an off the rack rod,

That's right. There shouldn't be an issue with "feel" type baits and the typically shorter casts.

These are a nice alternative to cork and EVA. Good cork is expensive if you can even get it. As a result we're not only seeing more (and in some cases better) EVA, but alternatives like these neoprene skins. I'm getting into carbon fiber skinned grips for custom builds and they are attractive, light and comfortable but not a lot cheaper than cork due to the labor involved.

Looks good JF. I'll give that a try.

As with anything this new the jury will remain out as far as durability is concerned, but FWIW I haven't seen or heard anything to be concerned about. As for the OP regarding application, they're suitable for pretty much any common bass fishing application with the possible exception of deep cranking. The ratio (IPT) is just personal preference.

Point the rod tip toward the line spool too. If there is a backing-to-mainline knot that's not laying flat it can start a hump that grows as line is wound. When starting to spool up loosen the drag and thumb the spool while turning the handle until the level wind guide is in line with the line going onto the spool.

If it hasn't been opened before it might be sticky. You can mount it to a rod to get some extra leverage to twist the side plate.

The Orra's a decent sub$100 reel.

Denatured alcohol is probably the strongest while also material friendly solvent there is. We use it in rod building all the time. You might also try some Simple Green concentrate.

As long as it's dry, none.

I like hi-vis line for this reason. Use a leader if it gives you confidence, but I'm not convinced bass can see line or care if they do. Watch where the line meets the water.

On a cost/benefit basis 1. Carbontex Drag $8-$12 +/- 2. Super Tune (only on solid spool shaft models) $34 including cleaning 3. Spool Bearings $14-$28 depending on ABEC rating 4. Level wind kits (mostly benefit non-disengaging level winds in Ambassadeurs) $ varies by model. 5. After market spools. whiffle spools generally allow casting of lighter baits. $ vary 6. Handles, cosmetic changes These rules apply to most any reels. The single best thing you do for reel performance is a pro deep cleaning and lube but I don't consider that and 'upgrade' per say.

x2

In addition a spinnerbait hook is stout, a ML may not drive that hook home.

The President is a great bang for the buck.

You have this figured out. I'll just add that when you service the reel putting a dab of grease in between the flanges on that dog also helps quiet it down.

About the only house brand reel I recommend regularly is the BPS PQ. As for rods, line etc. I'd look at the features and if it looks like it will do the job and the price is right I would consider them along with brand name products.

When you look at the two side by side you can easily see the texture difference. "Dartanium" may or may not be a carbon based material but it's characteristics are nothing like the Carbontex, which in my experience in the real deal. Upgrading to them is relatively inexpensive and the surest bang for the buck in upgrades in general.

Trolling rods can run from 5' up to 12'. For a single rod setup 8-9 is probably ideal. A medium power, moderate action in either graphite or glass. You'll want a full grip, EVA holds up better in rod holders.

That's a good deal.