Calcutta 400B Vs. Avet SX 5.3

[Finished Business]

Hey guys. Looking to pick up a new reel for a few purposes...mainly all casting (bottom bouncing, drifting, ocean casting, and light tackle jigging.

I can't afford one for each purpose so I've got to find the best for all I need it.

The calcutta 400B is on sale most places (online) for $229.99, and the Avet for $159.99

Similarities are line class (10-25lb), line capacity, gear ratio, and overall size (2-3/8" Diameter approx)

Aside from the price, differences are as follows:

Drag Weight: Cal - 17.5 ; Avet - 14lbs
Drag Style: Cal - Star ; Avet - Lever
Handle: Cal - dual grip ; Avet - Single
Bearings Cal - 3 ARB, 1 Roller ARB ; Avet - 8 Sealed Stainless ball bearings
Retrieve per crank: Cal - 24" ; Avet - 30"
Weight: Cal - 11oz ; Avet 14oz
Manufactured in: Cal - Malaysia (i think) ; Avet - USA

I would appreciate any thoughts on this as it's a purchase I'd like to make soon so any insight is great!

I would lean towards the Avet personally, if it wasn't for the more big game style handle, but I can see the larger 700 series calcuttas have the same style handle. I don't really like the star drag of the calcutta, since I have started using a lever drag. As well the Shimano has half the bearings. I like the larger retrieve of the avet, and don't mind 3oz heavier.

THOUGHTS??

Thanks!

FB

links here:

http://www.tackledirect.com/avetsx53silver.html

http://www.tacklewarehouse.com/Shimano_Calcutta_400_B_Series_Casting_Reels/descpage-SHC47.html

 

[Clipper]

Looks like you can get the Avet in left hand drive so that's what I'd pick. Good price, as well.

 

[alwaysfishn]

You can't go wrong with the Calcutta! It is one of the most popular reels, precision built, reliable and easily serviced as the parts are readily available. I wouldn't put too much stock into the idea that more bearings is better. I know that the Calcutta will stand up to the challenge of tossing 4 oz betty's all day.

Check out J&H Tackle http://www.jandh.com/c-61-baitcasting-reels.aspx?pagenum=2 They have free shipping and sometimes you can get a 10 - 15% discount coupon to use. http://www.retailmenot.com/view/jandh.com

 

[Dogbreath]

I find that constant casting with a lever drag gets to be a PITA after a while-I can see using one for live bait but not jigs.

 

[Finished Business]

Pretty persuasive point Dogbreath. As this will be largely used for bottom bouncing, (gf getting my old abu to get introduced to the trade), this makes for a very good point. After reading and thinking, I could easily understand the PITA aspect. Probably going to go with the Shimano tommorrow. Its combo'd up with a convergence for $329.

Thanks guys.

 

[islanderguy]

I've used the Calcutta 400b for about 10 years for jigging...great reel. I've always been a Shimano guy but a buddy of mine convinced me to buy a Diawa Luna 300. This reel is super smooth with an awesome drag system. I find that I bring the Luna out a lot more than the Calcutta.

http://www.tackletour.com/reviewdaiwalunapg4.html

 

[Gypseas]

I have the SX5.3 and find it a bit of a wobble. Really have to hold on it when retrieving a fish. Not my fav reel

Smooth drag and fast retrieval rate though. Someone mentioned casting, I'll have to try it this summer.