ccr425

Sounds about right. I let a friend borrow one of my setups. The reel was a righty and he throws with his left hand on the reel. He had a few horrible birds nests that made me cringe from the grinding, clanging noises and that's when I noticed he was casting with the reel horizontal. So the handle was moving and engaging the spool mid cast! Later, when I got home I noticed that he had the spool tension pretty tight and was having to really snap the casts to get any distance. Lesson learned!

Will do.

It was about $33.00 + shipping. The nut, retainer, and screw were about another $6.00. Not sure if I needed the nut, but I ordered one just in case.

I called Shimano to make sure of the fit. Ordered over the phone to make sure of part numbers.

Went ahead and pulled the trigger on 2 complete Metanium handles since I was already getting one to replace my 6.2:1 Metanium's handle. Grabbed the nut cap and screw as well. Thanks for the input everyone!

I just want to do this handle once. Want to make sure I'm not disappointed because of tolerances. I read somewhere about an aftermarket handle that had a bad fit with its knobs. I can't deal with that. I know there's a million different options, lol.

That's another option. I've already decided on the XG handle for my '13 Metanium. Guess I could keep the stock look for the Core.

I like their swept handle a lot. I've also read where some people didn't care for the cap for the nut. I'm just gathering info at this point.

I've seen the Hawgtech handles and some of the JDM handles, but have no clue about the quality and fit of any of the handles available. Any input would be appreciated. The handle will be going on my flipping reel(Core 100mgFV). Thanks.

This^^^^. I would go with the Metanium in your preferred flavor and put the optional deep spool in it. Both reels are super refined, but I reach for the Metaniums most of the time.

Thank you. My local tackle shop had it and gave me a great deal on it. It worked out great for me since I just got into pitching plastics.

That's a sweet looking setup! I've been thinking about trying that reel for a while. Congrats!

My newest rig: Orochi XX Perfect Pitch Shimano Core 100 mgFV

Good taste for sure.

A couple more of my favorites: '13 Metanium/OrochiXX Tour Versatile '13 Metanium/OrochiXX Extreme Mission Type F

Thanks guys.

I throw lighter jigs, t-rigs, weightless plastics, almost anything 1/4oz and lower with this rig. Shimano 15 Aldebaron HG Phenix K2 684 Custom

Thanks.

Thanks! I've been wanting one for a while, just couldn't get past the weight. I've been on the lightweight kick for the last year because of my wrists.

It's definitely heavier than what I'm used to, but it's so smooth and pretty! Lol. Haven't used it enough to develop an opinion on performance.

My first Daiwa: Zillion Type R XX Perfect Pitch

I've been using Zoom Magnum Speed Worms lately. So versatile. I usually fish them weightless either on top or just let them sink.

First of all I'm using 20lb Power Pro. I have two brakes on internally and the dial on two with a pretty fast drop when I let 1/4oz fall straight down. I've had one backlash with this setup so far.

My HG feels nice and smooth. It casts so effortlessly. Really enjoying it for around 1/4oz and down.

I really enjoy my XX rods. The TV was my first Megabass product and I was super impressed with the fit and finish of that rod. I have only fished bottom contact lures with it and I would say it has plenty of sensitivity. I've only fished it in ~15' or shallower water. I've thrown t-rigs down to around 3/8oz and it was ok casting. I really like throwing a 1/2oz jig plus trailer. It just feels right when casting a jig and trailer around 5/8oz. I'm gonna try throwing frogs with it this summer. I do have to say that the EMTF is my favorite bottom contact rod ever! Just wish it was 7' - 7'2".