Ive narrowed my choices down to these three combos. Which is the best quality? Still open to more suggestions under$100

You will probably get lots of suggestions for Mettle. I like Lew's brand stuff, but like I said, I would buy used. Better yet, wait till they start to clear stuff off shelves sometime between winter and next spring to make room for new ones. The BPS Spring Classic sail paired w/to and reel trade in can be killer. Personally not the biggest fan of Pro Qualifiers, but one of those for around 50 bones would be a little bit better than Black Max or American Hero. You may have your heart set on getting a casting setup NOW, but even in today's society, patience is rewarding, and good things come to those who wait.

I've got some 6'10" Lew's American Hero combos and a H2O Mettle on a H2O Ethos 7' MH rod (not the H2O Mettle combo).    I would say it's a toss up.   Both are great reels for the money.    The Lew's uses a magnetic brake system and the H2O uses a centrifugal brake system.    The Lew's is a great feeling, well balanced combo...I really like the rod.    Not sure about the rods that come with the H2O combos.    I have heard the rod that comes with the Abu Black Max combo leaves a little bit to desired.   

h20 mettle combos

X2 on the black max rod... had one for a while and passed it down the line.

I'm a Lew's fan but would go with the Mettle for sure. It's the best one piece aluminum frame reel for the price.

I have 3 Mettles, you can't beat them for the money. 

Thanks everyone