I was kicking around getting a Cardiff for my swimbait rod.  Now I'm thinking a 200B.  Any help would be appreciated!  Thanks in advance!

 

Darin

A Cardiff is a good reel.  A Calcutta is a great reel.  Probably costs a little more.  I don't own any Cardiff reels.  I own several Calcutta reels.  I know that it is really hard to wear a Calcutta out.

If you want a little more distance/ line capacity look at the Curado 300E or the  EJ.

Go for a 300 size cardiff or calcutta. 200 is too small.

Go for a 300 size cardiff or calcutta. 200 is too small.

 

Especially if you're throwing big mono, you'll dump the majority of your spool capacity on the cast.

 

A quick review of the Bait Monkey's guide to swim bait reels will indicate that the 300 D is highly recommended.

 

 

A-Jay

Especially if you're throwing big mono, you'll dump the majority of your spool capacity on the cast.

 

A quick review of the Bait Monkey's guide to swim bait reels will indicate that the 300 D is highly recommended.

 

 

A-Jay

I wish I could afford a "D"     200 to 250 is my limit.  

I wish I could afford a "D"     200 to 250 is my limit.  

 

I hear Ya - that's the problem with that darm monkey - he never takes that into account.

 

I'd say the Cardiff A 300 size is your choice ~  good price, good quality for it, sufficient line capacity and a proven track record by guys who know what they're going - I might not be in that category . . .

 

A-Jay

I'd say Calcutta B is a definite solid reel and will withstand time. I'm sure you can find a real decent one searching online.

Calcutta & Cardiff are basically the same reel

Calcutta B, cold forged, & 3 bearings + 1 roller

Cardiff, diecast, 4 bearings + 1 roller

And no there is no structural strengrh differences between cold forged & diecast. And yes I have a degree in metallurgy!

Well, it looks like I am back to the Cardiff.  Until. . . . . . . .I can afford the Calcutta D anyways!