thinking about buying a Shimano Cardiff A soon. I would like to hear what y'all think about the reel. is it a steal for $100?

It's an exceptionally good reel for it's price point. It's relatively light for it's class, decently palmable for a round reel, has a very smooth retrieve, a good gear ratio for cranks, a fair amount of torque, a smooth drag, and can handle a wide variety of lures, although it gets iffy around a 1/4oz. or so. Over all, certainly a reel I'd buy.

@Bass Junkie thanks for the help!

i had 2 of these some years ago and they were pretty good and i would buy again if i needed a baitcaster...i had 2 of the 400s

@Bass Junkie thanks for the help!

Any time. If you want more info, feel free to PM me, and I'll try to help you out any way I can.

I have a 300 that I use for musky fishing and really like. I started with an old pro qualifier round reel that was very similar to the Cardiff. They seem to be great reels for the price.

Had one yrs ago.it lasted about 9 months.it was givin to me.I wouldn't buy one for sure.light ya smooth ya. But wow the thing turned into a coffee grinder

There's a Calcutta 150 on the Flea Market right now, looks like $100 shipped, that's a nice reel. Definitely an upgrade from the Cardiff. 

I owned a Cardiff 300....never fell in love with it. To each his own though. Good luck.

It's not a "steal" for $100, but it's a good reel that will probably last you a long time with a little maintenance. The ones I have were bought used for $60-$70 each.

I have an older Cardiff 101 on my Cranking Rod and a 301A on my Swimbait Rod.  Both are pretty nice and very workman-like.  I think I paid $85 for both together.  Deals are out there.

I personally acquired a mint one for $40 shipped just recently. A little patience will save you quite a bit of money.