Comparing three Daiwa flagship and very popular models, general use reels for throwing baits in the 1/2 oz to 3/4 oz, maybe up to 1 oz. Jigs, worms, C-rigs, that kind of stuff. The reels I'd like to compare, purely on performance rather than price, are:

• Steez SV TW

• Steez A 100

• Zillion SV TW

The truth is that I am still perplexed by some of Daiwa's most popular models. At the end of the day I have concluded that it's a me problem. There has to be something I am not grasping. Probably not understanding the finer points of application, and fine tuning adjustments.

Help me to understand. Please.

Are you comparing the new generation or previous? The Steez a 2 and the new 24 Steez sv tw model I’m assuming? I own the 21 zillion sv and the Steez sv 1016 so I can help compare those possibly. I haven’t used the Steez much yet.

5 minutes ago, Brycecover said:

Are you comparing the new generation or previous? The Steez a 2 and the new 24 Steez sv tw model I’m assuming? I own the 21 zillion sv and the Steez sv 1016 so I can help compare those possibly. I haven’t used the Steez much yet.

Mostly wanting to compare the new models. But I imagine some generalities exist between the new models and some of the older models. I’m also aware that one of them is not SV, it has the mag force Z. So without poisoning the well I would like to see if people with real world experience can tell me if there are times when one might be better than the other or if One just rules them all and eventually I’m probably going to compare them to some of the Shimano big casters.

I kinda debated the same late last year. One thing that I came to realize was the steez really is made for serious tournament anglers (IMHO). I don’t use my zillion enough to justify it, so I don’t see the need for a steez.

I don't really understand this thread. You mention that it's a you problem, but what's the issue to begin with? All three have the same'ish performance. The Steez A will be the best of the three to handle baits for over 1oz. The Zillion is by far the best of the three for the price (purchased from Japan).

If you're deciding between these three, i'd put them in a garbage bin and grab the Zillion HD instead. It's superior to a Steez, and is like ~$40 more expensive than a standard Zillion. The definition of a nobrainer, and the best bang per buck for a high end reel that you can purchase atm.

'24 Steez is 32-mm SV spool, magnesium body, alloy hyperdrive main gear (new clutch, extra LW BB)

Steez A2 is 34-mm MagZ spool and aluminum body, brass (?) hyperdrive main gear.

'21 Zillion SVTW is 34-mm SV Boost spool and aluminum body, alloy hyperdrive main gear.

(can swap-in Zillion G/ '22 HD brass gearset)

The important part in all these gearsets, they have stainless pinion.

A2 has alloy main gear as well unless I'm missing something.

Morethan PE TW has brass for 8 gear ratio, alloy for 7 gear ratio.

I have the Steez CT, Steez AII, both the new and old Steez SV TW (and the Shallow Spool Edition), and the Zillion.

As far as what weight to throw on each one. I got the following from Daiwa and the Hook Up Tackle when I asked about this.

CT - lighter lures, not quite BFS. It can handle some heavier lures but for me it tops out at 1/2oz. Daiwa suggested a 1/4oz.

SV TW - Most of your average lures 3/8 to 1/2oz but it can handle a little more in my opinion. Meant for more "accurate casting".

AII - 1/2oz and up. I have thrown 3oz glides on it.

Zillion - kind of an all around reel. I have used up to 1oz on it. This is my own observation. I didn't ask Daiwa or the Hook Up Tackle on this one.

3 hours ago, Micro Module Police said:

I don't really understand this thread. You mention that it's a you problem, but what's the issue to begin with?

It’s understandable, since I didn’t provide the context of my own lived experience, which is that the SV TW reel (17 Tatula SV TW 103) has been one of the most disappointing reels I have ever owned due to casting performance. If I were to get subpar casting performance from it, that would be a noticeable upgrade from anything I have experienced in the five years I have owned it.

Contrast that with what I read from others that I would estimate to be at least or similarly experienced as myself, and I feel the first thing I should do is to make sure it isn’t a “me thing”.

I read many subtle disclaimers about ultimate casting distance that may not quite be present with SV reels, but people that I wouldn’t tolerate the level of subpar performance that I have seem to sing their praises and keep spending good money on them.

I’ll happily sacrifice my ego to learn the secrets of making an SV TW reel lovable in my hands.

3 hours ago, Micro Module Police said:

The Steez A will be the best of the three to handle baits for over 1oz.

Being that it is Magforrce Z instead of SV (Boost), that would be my choice based on my experience at this point in time.

3 hours ago, Micro Module Police said:

The Zillion is by far the best of the three for the price (purchased from Japan).

Good to know, but I’m not currently prioritizing that metric.

3 hours ago, Micro Module Police said:

If you're deciding between these three, i'd put them in a garbage bin and grab the Zillion HD instead. It's superior to a Steez, and is like ~$40 more expensive than a standard Zillion. The definition of a nobrainer, and the best bang per buck for a high end reel that you can purchase atm.

The TW HD was not on my bingo card, but it looks interesting. Why do you feel it’s superior to a Steez?

1 hour ago, Big Hands said:

It’s understandable, since I didn’t provide the context of my own lived experience, which is that the SV TW reel (17 Tatula SV TW 103) has been one of the most disappointing reels I have ever owned due to casting performance.

When you say casting performance, do mean distance or issues with backlashes?

Also, what line are you using? With Daiwa reels I have owned with the SV spools, I have found anything above 12lb (approximately) can shorten casting distance more so than a regular spool. I find 10lb gets the best distance. On my previous gen Steez SV TW I changed out the bearings for ABEC 7 ceramics and thing casts like dream, a little more distance but it casts effortlessly.

1 hour ago, Big Hands said:

It’s understandable, since I didn’t provide the context of my own lived experience, which is that the SV TW reel (17 Tatula SV TW 103) has been one of the most disappointing reels I have ever owned due to casting performance. If I were to get subpar casting performance from it, that would be a noticeable upgrade from anything I have experienced in the five years I have owned it.

Contrast that with what I read from others that I would estimate to be at least or similarly experienced as myself, and I feel the first thing I should do is to make sure it isn’t a “me thing”.

I read many subtle disclaimers about ultimate casting distance that may not quite be present with SV reels, but people that I wouldn’t tolerate the level of subpar performance that I have seem to sing their praises and keep spending good money on them.

I’ll happily sacrifice my ego to learn the secrets of making an SV TW reel lovable in my hands.

Being that it is Magforrce Z instead of SV (Boost), that would be my choice based on my experience at this point in time.

Good to know, but I’m not currently prioritizing that metric.

The TW HD was not on my bingo card, but it looks interesting. Why do you feel it’s superior to a Steez?

It's as smooth/smoother, more comfy to palm (i am assuming you're talking about the 2016 steez tw and the steez a, which uses the same frame), looks like a reel that is much more expensive (important to me, but might not be to others), casts well, and pretty much has zero disadvantages. I can't even think of a single con other than the top plate being made out of plastic, which i would've preferred it being full metal, but that's just nitpicking, and is the case on all current zillions.

26 minutes ago, FishTank said:

When you say casting performance, do mean distance or issues with backlashes?

Primarily distance.

27 minutes ago, FishTank said:

Also, what line are you using? With Daiwa reels I have owned with the SV spools, I have found anything above 12lb (approximately) can shorten casting distance more so than a regular spool. I find 10lb gets the best distance.

Anywhere from 6 to 12 lbs mono and fluoro and up to 40 lbs braid.

28 minutes ago, FishTank said:

On my previous gen Steez SV TW I changed out the bearings for ABEC 7 ceramics and thing casts like dream, a little more distance but it casts effortlessly.

Duly noted.

26 minutes ago, Micro Module Police said:

It's as smooth/smoother, more comfy to palm (i am assuming you're talking about the 2016 steez tw and the steez a, which uses the same frame), looks like a reel that is much more expensive (important to me, but might not be to others), casts well, and pretty much has zero disadvantages. I can't even think of a single con other than the top plate being made out of plastic, which i would've preferred it being full metal, but that's just nitpicking, and is the case on all current zillions.

It has been added to 'the list'.

4 hours ago, bulldog1935 said:

'24 Steez is 32-mm SV spool, magnesium body, alloy hyperdrive main gear (new clutch, extra LW BB)

Steez A2 is 34-mm MagZ spool and aluminum body, brass (?) hyperdrive main gear.

'21 Zillion SVTW is 34-mm SV Boost spool and aluminum body, alloy hyperdrive main gear.

(can swap-in Zillion G/ '22 HD brass gearset)

The important part in all these gearsets, they have stainless pinion.

I know you're someone that is particular enough about reel performance that you take the time to carefully bench tune a number of your reels. I also notice you take interest and display knowledge of several SV reels. I know there are a number of different versions of SV and SV Boost, and it seems like they each may have a niche where they excel?

So, would you consider a Magforce Z reel over an SV?

Do you find it possible to get casting distance from a stock SV reel compared to anything else from Daiwa or SHimano?

I'm guessing you could bench tune a Penn Surfmaster to be amazing, but I'm looking for more of an off the shelf standout.

1 hour ago, Big Hands said:

Contrast that with what I read from others that I would estimate to be at least or similarly experienced as myself, and I feel the first thing I should do is to make sure it isn’t a “me thing”.

If you want to cast 1/8 oz to 1 oz, you want SV

If you want to cast 1/4 oz to 2 oz, MagZ.

Distance - stock SV 1016 spool, 12-lb fluoro, 6'7" MM bass rod. 1/8-oz loaded jighead past 90', which is farther than most people fish.

See if you can understand this post, and no offense meant, but the smoother you accelerate Daiwa MagForce, the more you're rewarded with cast distance.

For me, the distinction is natural, because I've cast fly rod and baitcaster with left arm for 50 years, and spinning rod with right arm for a little longer. The muscle memories are separate.

8 hours ago, bulldog1935 said:

If you want to cast 1/8 oz to 1 oz, you want SV

If you want to cast 1/4 oz to 2 oz, MagZ.

See if you can understand this post, and no offense meant, but the smoother you accelerate Daiwa MagForce, the more you're rewarded with cast distance.

In a general sense I am about as smooth as the bucket on a backhoe, but I think I can read between the lines here. To be honest, this may be the source of at least some of my results. My high school basketball team presented me with a croquet mallet at our banquet to honor my apparently heavy handed tendencies.

I have no experience with any of the Steez reels, so I can't help you there.

I'm also someone who has never been overly concerned with maximizing casting distance, but if I were..... I wouldn't be reaching for a Tatula SV.

Don't get me wrong, I like those reels. I have two of the '17 CT framed Tat SV reels and at least 3 of the '20 Tat SV reels. One currently has a Ray's BFS spool in it on a Dobyns Sierra SUF740.

What I believe people appreciate the Tat SV reels for is that they are a bit overbraked and have been proven to excel at skipping and casting in and around cover with reduced backlashes. They have never been one I would reach for if I need distance.

The '21 Zillion seems to be more open version of the SV system with the SV boost and I like how mine has performed.

I think @bulldog1935 nailed it describing best uses for the different Daiwa brake options.

It's not personal - it's physics.

Here's a little more on Daiwa brake profiles (all the way down the page that links)

The 103 model was my first Daiwa reel after 20 years using Shimano. It was a terrible experience. I returned it and only after many many discussions with bulldog did I order a Zillion 1016 SV, an absolutely trick little reel, then an Zillion HD, then 2 more Zillion HD’s, then Zillion SV USDM (because it’s brass geared) and finally a Tatula 200 Coastal w hyper everything. I’ve added SV boost shallow spool to this collection (34mm) which I can install on every reel listed except the Coastal.

Spool is 11 grams in weight and absolutely will handle 1/8 ounce with proper mechanics (set up & casting stroke).. totally handles 3/16 easily.

All of this to say, don't judge Daiwa on the 103 model.. that reel definitely has something off on it and I don’t know if a bad batch of reels made it thru or what.

I’m very pleased with them, all things considered.

Also, I too had to learn the different braking profiles of these reels, thanks to Ron I understand them quite well now..

One more thing, the HD reels are fast, amazing speed on pitching.

12 hours ago, bulldog1935 said:

It's not personal - it's physics.

I appreciate your candor, and I don't take criticism personally that's meant to be constructive. I'm genuinely looking to work through whatever my casting shortcomings are with honest, objective takes.

7 hours ago, F14A-B said:

The 103 model was my first Daiwa reel after 20 years using Shimano. It was a terrible experience. I returned it and only after many many discussions with bulldog did I order a Zillion 1016 SV, an absolutely trick little reel, then an Zillion HD, then 2 more Zillion HD’s, then Zillion SV USDM (because it’s brass geared) and finally a Tatula 200 Coastal w hyper everything. I’ve added SV boost shallow spool to this collection (34mm) which I can install on every reel listed except the Coastal.

Spool is 11 grams in weight and absolutely will handle 1/8 ounce with proper mechanics (set up & casting stroke).. totally handles 3/16 easily.

All of this to say, don't judge Daiwa on the 103 model.. that reel definitely has something off on it and I don’t know if a bad batch of reels made it thru or what.

I’m very pleased with them, all things considered.

Also, I too had to learn the different braking profiles of these reels, thanks to Ron I understand them quite well now..

One more thing, the HD reels are fast, amazing speed on pitching.

The model I have is the TASV103XS. It's good to know I am not the only one feeling like they are more than a little off the mark. It's the last Daiwa baitcaster I bought. To be fair, I also have a couple Shimano baitcasters that I don't love (SLX DC and Curado 150 DC). It's easy enough to avoid that generation of DC reels on the Shimano side, but it's not been as easy to avoid the SV platforms.

But old wounds heal and my Daiwa-curiousity has resurfaced.

I have one slot on my team open and the position I feel like I would like to address is the partner for my 7'3" Kage MH/F all purpose rod. I most often use it for casting Carolina rigs (with 15 lbs main line), and sometimes bomb casting is what is on the menu. Sometimes it's not that big of a deal. Sometimes it would really be nice to dial long distance to reach the party to whom I wish to speak. Sometimes that means casting into some wind. I'm usually using 1/2 to 3/4 ounce egg sinkers, plus soft plastics (a 4" EZ Shiner or Swing Impact are often the bait of choice).

I have two Curado 150M reels that are pretty decent, but I just thought I would try to see if there was anything out there that could be a little better at that particular task. I have other duties the Curado 150M's will handle.

So, to be fully transparent, that's what I am up to here.

On 3/18/2026 at 3:22 PM, FishTank said:

I have the Steez CT, Steez AII, both the new and old Steez SV TW (and the Shallow Spool Edition), and the Zillion.

As far as what weight to throw on each one. I got the following from Daiwa and the Hook Up Tackle when I asked about this.

CT - lighter lures, not quite BFS. It can handle some heavier lures but for me it tops out at 1/2oz. Daiwa suggested a 1/4oz.

SV TW - Most of your average lures 3/8 to 1/2oz but it can handle a little more in my opinion. Meant for more "accurate casting".

AII - 1/2oz and up. I have thrown 3oz glides on it.

Zillion - kind of an all around reel. I have used up to 1oz on it. This is my own observation. I didn't ask Daiwa or the Hook Up Tackle on this one.

I see plenty of people say the steez A II can handle down to 3/8 and some even 1/4 oz perfectly well. I know a lot of saltwater anglers that use them for 7 gram (1/4oz) baits.

I think Ben is generally correct, but it’s also not a hard and fast rule as far as weights go.

um, they're rated 7 g

1 hour ago, woolleyfooley said:

I see plenty of people say the steez A II can handle down to 3/8 and some even 1/4 oz perfectly well. I know a lot of saltwater anglers that use them for 7 gram (1/4oz) baits.

I think Ben is generally correct, but it’s also not a hard and fast rule as far as weights go.

Those were the guidelines I was given to me from Daiwa when I called about parts/warranty and I think The Hook Up Tackle did a video on all of the Steez models with the same suggestions. I looked but couldn't find it. Also, they're just guidelines and nothing absolute. I have thrown all kinds of lures outside those guidelines, like 3/8oz crankbaits on the Steez AII. I have tried some 1/4oz stuff with my other Steez AII and it didn't fare well (no distance and some backlashing). I was using it on a Loomis NRX+ 843C MBR. I switched it to a Daiwa Costal 80 and that reel threw the same 1/4oz without any issues, both have the 14lb FC on them. I then put the leftover Steez on my new P5 Mark56. So far it casts big baits really well but I have yet to catch anything on this new rod.

On 3/21/2026 at 9:48 PM, FishTank said:

I switched it to a Daiwa Costal 80 and that reel threw the same 1/4oz without any issues, both have the 14lb FC on them.

How do you like that coastal 80?

2 minutes ago, GetFishorDieTryin said:

How do you like that coastal 80?

I like it. It makes the same load noise on a cast that most Tatulas make but it's not bad. It took me a few to warm up to it. I had to take it apart and lube the whole thing but after that it was better. I also like it on the 843C NRX+. I had it on a Dobyn's Champion XP 7' Med Fast but it never felt quite right. I will probably end up selling the Dobyn's. It's Ok but I have other rods that feel better in that Med Fast rod range.

On 3/25/2026 at 12:17 AM, FishTank said:

I like it. It makes the same load noise on a cast that most Tatulas make but it's not bad. It took me a few to warm up to it. I had to take it apart and lube the whole thing but after that it was better. I also like it on the 843C NRX+. I had it on a Dobyn's Champion XP 7' Med Fast but it never felt quite right. I will probably end up selling the Dobyn's. It's Ok but I have other rods that feel better in that Med Fast rod range.

it shouldn't be bad for what they're charging for it.