rippin-lips

Yeah, I've only seen a few ever mentioned in like 3 years. He also only does like 2-3 releases a year so that's probably why there are only a few issues. Mike's trying to keep up with orders and also keeping the shelves stocked at all the places that carry his stuff. Is that a good reason... no definitely not but it is what it is I guess. He still makes a proven bait that catches fish though. Just saying I wouldn't write it off quite yet.

Mike runs a small operation and it's only him making baits with a couple others helping out. Things happen sometimes and he will take care of you if there's an issue. They catch fish for sure and I wouldn't write it off without using it first. There's plenty of proof that they work just fine. $70 is towards the lower end of swimbaits when it comes to price. For a handmade bait that really not bad. Matt, also make some great baits. The hardgill is awesome.

Then you just file a claim through eBay for the item not being as described. Take pictures and attach them to the claim. 9/10 times they side with the buyer. There are 4 or 5 right hand Tdz's in varying condition on eBay right now for about $130.

Why couldn't it be trusted? It's technically safer than buying from someone on a forum. The only thing you really have to worry about is condition but that's what the pics are for.

The PQ is a good reel and the Curado is a better reel. So now you have to decide if you want good or better, or 1 reel verse 2 reels. If money isn't an issue then but the best you can afford.

I always use some backing on my spinning reels. I run #10 j braid and it's not enough to fill the spool so I have to use backing. I usually use some cheap #10 and then just tie a simple overhand knot.

The Tdz is the reel that lead to the Steez. It's still used today by many people and some of the more rare models like the personal orders are highly sought after by enthusiasts. Tdz's in very good condition are getting harder to find but they do come up here and there. The amount of upgrade options for a tdz seem to be endless. It's a fantastic reel and I don't think you would be disappointed with one. It's an easy sell if you don't like it.

I'm afraid that you're incorrect on that. Only LH.

Abu silicote is a good reel grease.

CCC is too tight. Back it off and rotate it into place. Tighten the screw to just being snug and then adjust the CCC again.

Wera and Wiha make the best tools you can get for reel maintenance imo. I use the wera screwdriver set and the hex driver set. Hedgehog trust wrench is great for handle nuts. Their spool pin tool is also the best design I've used.

Quality is there on both as they are both higher end Daiwa reels. The SS SV uses a good amount of zaion and has a hollow feel to it. Now that doesn't make it bad by any means but different for sure. The spool in that reel though is very over braked. It left me wanting a lot more out of it. Between being over brakes and feeling like I toy I sold it. The SV103 is as solid as they come. It's based off the og zillion which is still a favorite of a lot of people. It has an sv spool also. Braking profile is definitely better than the SS SV. Still not a long bomber but that's really not the purpose of the sv spool. The SS SV is a watered down version of the Steez SV103. The frame is the same and the Steez nose piece can even be put on it. Obviously, the Steez has more bearings and uses better materials for the gear set and the spool. After being the owner of both reels 'all 3 if you count the Steez' I'd go with the SV103 10/10 times.

That's kinda strange. I've used them in the rain more times than I can count without issues.

I had one for a little while but I sold it. It is a nice reel but the braking profile of the spool is rather strong on it. Usually sv spools are great but that's the one reel/spool that didn't impress me very much. If you're target casting cranks short distances then it would be fine. For a long cast I'd look at a Daiwa different reel. The new tatula ct will be $198 and can be pre ordered right now from Tackle Trap in AL.

Your Curado will be fine.

The TW covers work fine and won't hurt your line. Myself and others have been using them for years now. Just put a little slack in the line when you put it on.

Theyre back in stock today. Go get a set. @Chris at Tech

That might be true. I just know that's their price on them. I got the last xsl when I bought mine 2 weeks ago.

Yes, both the 103 and 105 will be phased out. Tackle Trap sells the 103 for $255 shipped.

Very minimal at best and not worth the money personally.

Just take $25 and light it on fire. That's essentially what you're doing by buying aftermarket bearings for a lexa. It's a very budget friendly reel and it's not going to respond to better bearings. I've owned 2 of them and have been down that road.

Just give in to your wants. It's much easier that way. I finally did and I ended up buying 2 in a week. Granted, the one I got in the mail today was literally too good to pass up.

Little brother showed up today.

I use #20 j braid a lot and have zero issues with it. I use it in #10 on my spinning reel. It's a great braid for the money. Don't worry about it.