Looking for a swimbait reel for baits under 4oz and I'd really like a round reel. I want it to have a good retrieval rate of 30-32 ipt and be as compact as possible as I have small hands. I've been looking at the abu C4 models not sure what size to get. Does anyone know if they all run the same frame and just have deeper spools or are they all different. If there's another option I'd check it out as well, budget of 250 or less would be cool. 

The difference between the C4 models is a wider frame & spool.  Other specs seem to be the same. 

I would try to find a used Calcutta. There is one on the auction site right now for $204 BIN that looks like it is in great shape.

If you gonna get C4 I would say 5600 should be enough 6.3 gear 30 IPT. 6600 is just wider spool but same diameter. The only problem I don’t like Abu 5600 is level wind stay engaged at all time, might rob you some distance and a little bit more step to keep track.

Better alternative would be Shimano Cardiff 300 or at the top of your budget Calcutta 300. 

 

The calcutta seems like the reel to get. It's my first swim bait reel, I'm a little hesitant to spend too much on a style of fishing I may not love but I haven't found a style I don't love so calcutta it is. 

Cardiff or Calcutta.

Have you considered the Revo Toro?

I've got a Cardiff 300 that works really well for baits in that size range. 

I used a Cardiff 300 for throwing baits up to 4 oz. I kept it for about 2 years. I'd say for the $$ it's  a very good value, and a work horse at that. Just another option to explore.

1 hour ago, Hammer 4 said:

I used a Cardiff 300 for throwing baits up to 4 oz. I kept it for about 2 years. I'd say for the $$ it's  a very good value, and a work horse at that. Just another option to explore.

I vote for Cardiff as well if you look for cheaper option, But nothing can beat the Calcutta in quality if you willing to spend some more money.

Another vote for the Cardiff. It is truly overshadowed and underrated because of its sister the Calcutta. It is tough to beat in the bang for the buck and performance department. Ive had a 301a for quite some time now and love it. 

 

or

 

A-Jay

 

16 hours ago, slonezp said:

Have you considered the Revo Toro?

 

Do they have a round Revo Toro?

If you can find it, Shimano Calcutta 200B.  

 

Just a thought, most swimbaits do not function well with high IPT reels.  Too slow =  no action ....  Too fast = it lays on its side.   

 

Another consideration would be the Tranx.  Low profile, easy to palm.

25 minutes ago, ajschn06 said:

 

Do they have a round Revo Toro?

No. It's a beast of a reel though. Big in the musky world. 

Just now, slonezp said:

No. It's a beast of a reel though. Big in the musky world. 

I had one... awesome reel... but he's looking for round reels

Shimano Cardiff 300 series filled with Sunline Defier Armillo 25 lb filler spool 165 fills this reel. 5.8:1 ration is ideal for swimbaits, wake baits, glide baits. 

Tom

I have a cardiff. Don't care for it. I'd rather use the C3 or C4 which are pretty indestructible. I retired mine years ago.

I was looking at the cardiff and the IPT are 23 vs the calcutta 200 was 27. I like using faster reels with longer handles and big knobs to make up for the lower torque. Never thought of a fast reel making the bait lay on its side though. 

Honestly you could use a Corvalus and be fine.