I have been looking at getting a David Fritts 5.2-1 baitcaster to pair with a silaflex for cranking.  The only thing that is holding me back right now is the fact that it does not have instant anti-reverse.  For anyone who has this reel, does that annoy you or hinder your fishing ability?  Reading through Iaconelli's article here he lists a superior anti-revesre as one of the 3 most important reel characteristics. Are there any low geared baitcasters in the $75 range I should be looking at?

Andy

I've asked about this reel, and I've had only one answer:  it's a fantastic reel for cranking.   The ones I've looked at seemed to be very well made and it feels like a solid reel.   A Fritts on a Silaflex sounds like an awesome cranking combo.  

IIRC, FiveBass and Muddy just got one.

I have a Fritts reel for cranking and I love it!  My only complaint is that, when it was new, I was constantly backlashing it.  I took it to a local shop, had them clean and lubricate it, and I don't recall backlashing it since.

Hillbilly

Andy, what Ike is talking about is probably not a dedicated crankin' reel. The lack of instant anti-reverse is actually a good thing on a crankin' reel, at least to me it is. That is one of the main characteristics that make up a crankin' reel and has for a long time. That little slip you get when a fish hits lets the fish keep the bait in his mouth when you feel the bite and swing sideways on the so-called "hookset". It really does help.

The Fritts crankin' reels in my mind are the best value anywhere if you want to buy a reel that is for crankin' only. I also like the Silaflex glass rods. I have 2 of those.

I'm waiting impatiently for them to go on sale. ;D

I'm waiting impatiently for them to go on sale. ;D

Probably the Fathers Day sale....they have had them on sale that week the last 2 years.