I am looking to get a new cranking reel I have narrowed it down to two. Either lews bb1 or the new shimano Calcutta d. I know there is a big price difference in these two but I just want to make the right decision. I will be using it for shallow to medium depth cranks. Thanks!

I would either go for a used CuradoE5 or a ChronarchE5. But if your still gonna go with either of those 2, they are 2 different styles. The Calcutta is a round reel, while the BB1 is a low profile caster. I dont really like round reels myself due to they are too big for my hands, so I would go with the BB1. Yes I said that Hootie, I voted for the Lews. I think I need to sit down, Im starting to feel faint.

LMG, that is the first step. The dizziness you feel is the Lews Awesomenss. Welcomme to the dark side.

Rangerphiil, Lews BB1

I want to take advantage of cabelas 5 dollar shipping this weekend. I have gift cards to cover the cost of the BB1 but just wondering if I should be patient and wait to get the money for the Calcutta? I know the shimano would be a beautiful reel I just don't know enough about the lews BB1

If you want the Calcutta for the sake of having one, then wait. But if you want a good cranking reel that will cast a mile, get the Lews.

Just ordered the Lews BB1 can't wait to see how she does!

The BB1 comes with all six brakes out. Set one pair in for starters and hang on. I think you'll be happy.

Thanks for the advice!

Go with the Lew's you can't go wrong with them

Just got my lews BB1 in today! My first impression is how small it feels in my hand. Seems like the newer reels are getting smaller. Anyway love the looks now I just need to find a good cranking rod to put it on! Any suggestions? Thanks all!

Do a search on here and you will find plenty of good rod recommendations. Without a price range noted you will here anything from a Sellus, to a veritas, to dobyns or Loomis. For shallow to mid divers as you noted there are tons of rods that will work. Help us help you, by noting a price.

Price is not a issue. I just want the best rod for cranking shallow to mid depth. If that is a 50.00 rod or 300.00 just as long as it does a good job. However I don't want to pay for a name just results! Thanks all!

I would either go for a used CuradoE5 or a ChronarchE5. But if your still gonna go with either of those 2, they are 2 different styles. The Calcutta is a round reel, while the BB1 is a low profile caster. I dont really like round reels myself due to they are too big for my hands, so I would go with the BB1. Yes I said that Hootie, I voted for the Lews. I think I need to sit down, Im starting to feel faint.

This is all my fault lol

If it's results your after, then why not go old school and get something like a good Shimano Curado 200 DPV or a Revo Winch?  Most likely in the same price range or even cheaper and it may have some good mojo still on them ?

still have one Lews 4:2 retrv. when Browning sold them and still use it ..... my fav. now is Daiwa Crazy Cranker the BEST reel I have ever owned @ 4:9 retrv. 

 

 

Price is not a issue. I just want the best rod for cranking shallow to mid depth. If that is a 50.00 rod or 300.00 just as long as it does a good job. However I don't want to pay for a name just results! Thanks all!

 

Dobyns Champ Crank Rod 7' MH 705  705CB

Price is not a issue. I just want the best rod for cranking shallow to mid depth. If that is a 50.00 rod or 300.00 just as long as it does a good job. However I don't want to pay for a name just results! Thanks all!

For under $100 the BPS cranking rods are good buys. You up the price to $150 maybe a crucial or Powell endurance rod. If you increase it to $200+ Loomis and dobyns champion cranking rods enter the picture. I am not a big crankbait guy and have a medium powered BPS cranking stick for light cranks and the dobyns 705 CB glass rod for a more all purpose rod. I also use the Powell endurance 695 rod for bigger topwaters and jerkbaits. Of the 3 I think the dobyns is the most versatile. I paid $160 for mine. Wait for spring sales and I am sure you will do well finding a good deal.

For under $100 the BPS cranking rods are good buys. You up the price to $150 maybe a crucial or Powell endurance rod. If you increase it to $200+ Loomis and dobyns champion cranking rods enter the picture. I am not a big crankbait guy and have a medium powered BPS cranking stick for light cranks and the dobyns 705 CB glass rod for a more all purpose rod. I also use the Powell endurance 695 rod for bigger topwaters and jerkbaits. Of the 3 I think the dobyns is the most versatile. I paid $160 for mine. Wait for spring sales and I am sure you will do well finding a good deal.

 

Great Advice! X2