My first impressions are that it is a precision, solidly made reel. Very smooth, and nice and light. The two things that stand out most are the extreme comfort when palmed and the use of precision metal throughout. Parts that are traditionally plastic have been replaced with metal. And not sloppy metal either, very precise, and seems to be quality, but only time will tell. And this reel blows away any other baitcaster I've ever held as far as comfort when palming it. I would say I have average sized hands, and l like to do 3 fingers in front of the trigger, and this reel feels like an extension of my hand. I will have more as I get this reel on the water.

8-)Spooled the reel up and decided to do some casting. Pretty breezy outside today. Didn't have to touch the controls and could unload the spool with relatively little effort. I have only owned two other low-profile baitcasters, so I'm not making any across the board claims, but this reel can CAST! Far superior to both my Daiwa Tierra and my Pflueger Templar. I can't imagine ever needing more casting ability from a reel distance wise, I don't know about light baits yet, but will find out.

8-)Took it our with only a 3/16 oz weight tied on. Can cast 25 - 30 yards in the wind. Seems pretty good to me.

8-) Casts small spinnerbait 25 yards in wind. Not sure on the size of the spinnerbait.

Taking the XS out for its first fishing action today. Paired it with an 6'6" M XF All Star Platinum rod and 15 lb Sufix Seige. Will be throwing swim jigs and spinner baits (my new North Stars). I will be fishing a reservoir called Muddy Run in PA for both largemouth and smallmouth. I'll tell ya how it goes.

Well, my fishing excursion turned into fishing with my 8 year old cousin for sunnies and hunting for crayfish. Had fun anyway.

Just checked them out, they seem kinda pricey but look and sound like a pretty carefree and easy to use reel.  Congrats! 8-)

I got mine NIB on ebay for 150. You can always find them on ebay for 170.

Finally got it out today. Amazing caster, caught about 12 bass and one HUMONGO gill (on a swim jig  ;D). Very impressed, drag performed well, had power, and didn't feel strained fishing spinnerbaits whatsoever. But incredible casting, at least two fish caught would have been out of range with my old baitcaster!  8-)