Has anyone handled or bought one of these yet ? Im pretty much shimano only when it comes to spinning reels, but at 6.6oz's this looks really promising for the money. Im curious if its a screw in handle like the stradics or a handle that pushes through like the saharas and symetres... 

 

I love Okuma reels. I was really interested in this reel when it was first announced. But to answer your question, the handle should be a push through, and secured by a screw in cap on the other end. I hope to play with one in person soon. I am curious to see what a carbon frame feels like.

I will be getting one soon. If the reel for some reason doesn't pan out, I won't be out too much. Intrigued by the weight, features, drag, price, and color scheme.

Played with this reel at a fishing expo today. Wasnt impressed. Id pay the little bit of extra money for a saros/stradic. Glad i didnt pull the trigger on one...

Played with this reel at a fishing expo today. Wasnt impressed. Id pay the little bit of extra money for a saros/stradic. Glad i didnt pull the trigger on one...

Was it just the smoothness of the retrieve that soured you. I would be interested in hearing more of your initial impressions...

I thought the reel was smooth, but the reel just didn't feel solid to me. I played with the new Sahara and symetre as well. They all felt cheap compared to the stradic fj. That is such a nice and well built reel....