I currently own 3 of the original pro qualifier reels and absolutely love them. All three are still working like the day I got them. Anyway, I see the Pro Qualifier 2 reels are on sale for $50 bucks and was wondering if they are as reliable and smooth as the original ones?

Like you I had a PQ for three years and it was a flawless little reel (it got traded in for $50 on a Chronarch MGL with gift cards), but don't know why the new models would not be as nice.  Someone on here will have a new one to comment. Ewin Evers never seems to have any trouble with his as he is fishing MLF, or elsewhere?

I have one that is 2 years old. It is a nice reel.  Mine cost $99.99.

The $49.99 reel is a special edition, but other than cosmetics it is supposed to be identical to the original pq2. That is according to the local bass pro shops rep.

If I needed more reels I would not hesitate to buy a couple.

 

I have nothing bad to say about the older one I own, however it always makes me nervous when a retailer has a "special run" that is half price. Bass pro has been good to me on returns so i wouldn't be afraid to try them. 

I definitely prefer my fuegos over my older pq... if you can swing the extra $.

4 hours ago, BaitFinesse said:

The old used a Doyo platform that had a reputation for being a long lasting workhorse.  I think that platform is still offered by Doyo in high end form.  The new one uses a different Doyo platform and is the same as the Lews LFS but has a dual brake.  Time will tell but the new ones may not be as robust as the older reels.  If I was looking go upgrade from old PQs I would look at the Tatula or Fuego reels.  That platform has been around since 2012 and has earned a reputation of being a dependable workhorse. 

So would you purchase a $50 PQ 2 over a Lew's LFS? My only complaint, largely because I'm used to the Abu Garcia Revos, is that I'm not a big fan of the PQ reel knobs/handles.

I typically only buy from Bass Pro during this kind of deal. 

 

I got my first PQ2 on sale for $120 (rod and reel combo).  I just picked up 2 more the first day of this sale.  I don't see any differences aside from some blue paint.

 

If I had $100 to spend and the reel was full retail price I would weigh my options, but at $50 you won't find a better reel.  Go for it.

 

 

7 hours ago, KentuckyBlueBass said:

So would you purchase a $50 PQ 2 over a Lew's LFS? My only complaint, largely because I'm used to the Abu Garcia Revos, is that I'm not a big fan of the PQ reel knobs/handles.

For $5 I use Reel Grips Pro Series.  Problem solved.

I bought two PQ2's today in 6.8:1. Except for the frame they are just a slightly smaller version of the PQ1 with a more refined brake dial (I have five of the original version and love them).

 

When I've had a chance to use them I'll report back in.

I've got one from years ago on a backup topwater rod that is a pretty nice little reel.

 

But, I've also got a Fuego CT I got off the bay for ~$50 just to see what the hype was about.

 

For that price I'd definitely go with the Fuego.

My friend purchased one of these while we were on vacation last week. He let me cast it a few times. I was impressed. Casted great and the reel feels solid.

 

Aluminum framed, dual brake reel for $50 is a good deal.

The Pro Qualifier use to be routinely touted along with the Shimano Citica  as a best for the money reel.  I have not seen or used one in many years, but I wold have no problem believing that they are still a good lower priced option.

 

I have had 2 of them for two years. Great reels.

Bought two more as backups during the sale.

I bought one for my 13 year olds first reel. Its...okay. It's a bit of a sluggish caster with limited use. I flushed and relubed the spool bearings which has helped some. But theres something with the cast control- it may be the shim material; it's just not enough "in between" when adjusting it. It's by no means a bad reel however...But I liked the slick, snappy back hand casts with 3/8oz+ lures one could make w/the old DBS braked reels...This reel - and its just one reel mind you- doesnt have that same forgiveness in it's casting and braking profile. 

 

Long story short, at full price I dont think I'd reccomend it. The sub $100 reel game has changed alot. 

broke down and bought one today for the $49.99 sale price. needed a dedicated reel for my plopper rod.

I have an older PQ2. that still gets used quite a bit.

I did a comparison in the yard today. the old reel and new reel are mechanically identical. only difference is the accent colors. they are both very smooth and the dual brakes work great.

I don't think you can get much better in the 50 dollar price range.

I would put it on par with my gen 4 revo sx reels.

I don't own the new one but I still own three gen 1s.  Still used in my rotation, specifically for pond hopping, backup (depending on technique/line spooled up) and my loaner setup.  It's an awesome reel, especially if you're on a budget.  I probably won't buy a new one because I love my Curados, Chronarchs, Mets and Conquest reels.  I wouldn't hesitate though in recommending one, especially at that price.  

 

I did notice after cleaning the reel last week that two of the three PQs the raceway on the side plate will need to be replaced soon.  Maybe after this season, this is after years of use though (going on 6 years I believe)

I bought two this last week and they kick ass. I compared it to my carbo lite 2.0 and its very close. They are the exact same frame, spool, and side plates. Handle and knobs are different and bearing count(handle)