how are they?

In addition to the Daiwa baitcasters I use I have 2 Extremes. One is the 2004 model 5.3:1,23" of pickup. This one has the 6 pin brakes under the side plate. I also have the 2006 modle 6.3:1, 28' IPT, this , along with the ones sold now have the external adjutable brakes. I use bothe on my crankbaits rods, the 5:3 on a 7' for diving baits, and the 6:3 on a 6'6" for jerk baits, Rat-L-Traps, shallow sub surface cranks. I love the older modle, cast's like a dream, smooth as silk, been very reliable and durable. The newer one is better for me now that I switched it to this application, before I tried to use it as a "finesse" casting reel. Has a tough time casting some stuff with it, probably not the reels fault, but mine for trying to use it where it didn't fit. I like them enough to buy another, I am going to put one on a 6' BPS cranking stick(both my other cranking rods are those too) for top waters.

I picked up a pair of the smaller ETX05's. I sold one and kept the other. I'll be using it this year on a jerkbait/small crankbait rod (Allstar Classic 6' Med.).  The reel is extremely smooth and I like the smaller size. I'm very impressed and looking forward to trying this one out ASAP.  This is coming from someone who swore off BPS reels years ago BTW.

I have four of them and just picked up two more when they were on sale at BPS for $44.95. They are a great reels smooth, cast well and hold up real well. The 07 models have two more ball bearings in them so those should be even nicer. IMO they are the best reel under $100 bucks.

Awesome, I just ordered one from BPS.  On sale for 45 bucks.  Can't beat that.  Must be clearing out the 06 models to make room for the new 07s with the extra bearings.

Great reel for the money!!!