I KNOW this was asked around the time I joined. I simply can't find the thread, and I don't remember the answer.  Every reel I have purchased has been from Cabela's, they've always come in a box.  I just picked up a cheaper spare reel from DSG, and it's in a clamshell, but I have I have seen the same model in a box.

 

Same Reel, different packaging. Can I just assume that is determined by the seller, how they want to present their merchendise, and DSG probably prefers to hang their stuff on racks? Maybe that's the difference?

 

thanks

Rich

Exactly. Places like DSG, Walmart, and the like order the reels in clamshell since they are harder to steal. Bigger sporting goods stores like BPS, Cabelas, and online shops order in boxes because they are easier to store large quantities of and they generally don't have problems with them walking out the door. 

 

Same reel, just different packaging. 

Thanks!