What features and functions do you look for in a rod and/or reel (besides price) that makes you say "now this....this is good stuff..."

I'm in search of some new tackle. I'd like to buy used gear if possible, hopefully save me some $$, but I'm not sure what to look for that is indicative of good (or poor) quality.

Please educate me. TA!

Anyone...?

Even some basic info or just trying to point me in the right direction will be much appreciated. Thank you.

1.- Stick to known brands

2.- Stick to known merchandise

3.- Stick to products and brands that have good performance & durability records over the years

4.- Bearing count in a reel means only bearing count, it 's not necessarily synonimous with quality

5.- Used gear is bad gear unless proven otherwise, the condition in which the gear is tells you if the gear has been taken good care of.

6.- Stay away from graphite frame reels ( if they fall or stepped on they break and are unrepairable )

7.- Don 't purchase the hottest new until after several months ( and even a year ) after being launched to the market, all the design flaws will appear in that period. ( You have no idea how many times I 've heard people praising about something they just purchased just to have them whine about it later ).

8.- Ask here before you purchase, many times the people working at a tackle store know nothing about tackle.

Well put Raul, I agree 100%

Tight Lines!!!