I am looking to buy the most durable reel I can buy. The problem I have is on the hookset I break reels. Smaller framed reels don't stand a chance especially if they have large handles. I have really strong mitts and I can't seem to lighten up. My best reel too date is the Chronarch 100b. If I could purchase more of them at a decent price I would. Any suggestions? Jim

There's no need for a hookset that will break a reel. That's so beyond overkill its unbelievable. The reels are not the problem you are. You gottta change your ways.

When you say "on the hookset I break reels" do you blow out the AR's?

Sounds like the use of braided lines and locking down the drags.

If so try setting a proper drag setting and rod so the reel will slip slightly. It will save them.

Tight Lines!

I took it as he is cracking the frame. Which is why I said he needs to change what he does.

Calcutta B.

I know I am the problem. It is not so much the hookset, but I seem to grip the reel hard on the set and bend the handles back either causing the shaft to bend or crack the frame. Take my word for it i have tried to stop, however it still happens. Smaller profile reels with large handles just don't have a chance . This only seems to happen when i am pitchin. All other applications no problem. Jim

Jim, a Calcutta will do the trick. In fact, I'd be willing to let you pitch with mine when the weeds come back. A 200B will probably fit your hands nice. You can go smaller, but that is a solid reel without being too chunky.

Yup, round reels like the Calcutta and Ambassadeur are often overlooked. They are tanks.

Calcutta B.

2X - yup, it's like a tank and cast and retrieve smoothly.

Go up to CT 100 GTE and it will be silky smooth.

Ryoga 1016 i use one for super heavy cover punching, its a fine reel thats built like a tank smooth as silk and will pitch baits with ease..

LOL, $700 worth of overkill.

Im a big guy with big hands and a big hook set, too. Take your hand off the handle on the hook set!

Sounds like you are twisting it buy torquing too much on the handle. Using right handed reels? Have you tried a lefty? Would put the habit of twisting to rest.

Im a big guy with big hands and a big hook set, too. Take your hand off the handle on the hook set!

Sounds like you are twisting it buy torquing too much on the handle. Using right handed reels? Have you tried a lefty? Would put the habit of twisting to rest.

I agree!

Plus it would put the power hand in direct charge of the rod and the hookset....

Tight Lines!

LOL, $700 worth of overkill.

LOL 700 worth of pure quality and pride of ownership!!!!!!!!!!

Id say the calcutta also.

pride of ownership

I get that, but pride doesn't fill livewells, LOL.

I get that, but pride doesn't fill livewells, LOL.

lmao that is a fact my friend that is a fact. but is does empty wallets in a hot minute!