I've always used Sufix 832 (with an occasional mistake of trying something else, like PowerPro - go ahead and crucify me LOL), which is an 8-carrier braid.

 

But there's also 4 carrier. I presume since there are twice as many carriers on 8, you could make each strand thinner for the same lb-test, so would 4 carrier just be a coarser and thicker braid for the same strength as it's 8-carrier counterpart?

 

Where would the two different carrier types have application? I guess I don't understand what 4-carrier is for.

 

4 carrier is used when you don't want to pay for a pricier 8 carrier. 8 carrier lines have a tighter weave pattern and tend to hold their shape a little better. Supposed to allow for smoother casting and rounder profile to prevent line digging on the spool. Diameter isn't based on the carriers, if the 8 carrier uses strands that are half as thick as the same strands used for a 4 carrier, they'd be the same diameter.

4 carrier is used when you don't want to pay for a pricier 8 carrier. 8 carrier lines have a tighter weave pattern and tend to hold their shape a little better. Supposed to allow for smoother casting and rounder profile to prevent line digging on the spool. Diameter isn't based on the carriers, if the 8 carrier uses strands that are half as thick as the same strands used for a 4 carrier, they'd be the same diameter.

X2.  8 is rounder, smoother, and holds it shape better. 4 is well the basic braid.  Standard PP isn't bad, but when you try 832 and fish micro guides you can def feel and hear the difference.  But the above is pretty much my thinking too.

 

EDIT:  Both can be used for whatever application you want, they both will work fine.  Just becomes personal preference IMO.

Cool, thanks guys. I knew there probably was an actual reasoning behind it. 

 

I only ask, because my latest deviation from Sufix 832 is that I'm trying the new P-Line XTCB braid, but it's a 4-carrier braid. Its from BPS, to which I had a gift card, and as of yet they don't have the XTCB 8 yet. 

 

I'll give it a try. You can definitely feel it's not as smooth. 

 

I'm skeptical that it'll separate me from my trusty 832....but I'll give it a shot. I like P-Line's other products very well.