Steez A vs Metanium vs Bantam 2024
newyorktoiowa57 reply :
I am putting together a nice frog combo, and am down to these reels. The Met would get a gear swap. Thoughts? I know guys have had trouble with the Met gears, especially for heavy duty techniques, but the gear swap should fix those issues. How do the size of these reels compare? I know the Bantum is really small but I have concerns about the weight. The steez A is intriguing to me, but I don’t really see why an aluminum reel has to be 500 bucks at retail, and the knobs on the reel suck. Thoughts?
FishingGeekTX reply :
I chose Met MGL at the time over all those other reels. No regrets, amazing reels.*
I handled a lot of reels, I preferred the Met, but I have not fished the others, so they may be amazing too for all I know.
You could use TW demo reel program..you can get 3-4 reels and settle your mind.
However, I just got some Met DCs and wow, they are impressive. For experienced users that are as one with their reels, who always adjust external brakes based on lure/conditions, can control the spool but still get very long casting...DC doesn't offer much beyond "trouble-free". It may actually hurt some peoples casting distance. For new to average users, I suspect they will be overall casting farther with less difficulty even in the wind. Something to consider.
Both can bomb a half ounce frog.
I would not worry about gears unless you have problems, then fork out the money or warranty it then get the new brass.
*edit: based on below, I suppose I will try a bantam out too 
Efishin reply :
For your intended purpose, definitely the Bantam MGL. NO questions or doubt in my mind that it is the correct choice IMO.
bwjay reply :
I have two Bantams (HG and XG) and love them for all techniques. They are ultra smooth and rigid. The weight is not an issue to me as they balance out my slightly tip heavy Helium3s but not completely. A lighter reel would make them more unbalanced. That being said, I bought a Chronarch MGL to try and while it can really bomb baits, the construction makes it feel less premium than a Bantam, and I was able to feel the "geary" feeling after only an hour of time on it. It is smooth but the geary feeling really cheapens it IMO. As nice of a reel as it is, I'm returning it. I bought the XG Bantam after deciding to return the Chronarch and I'm not upset at all about having two Bantams. They palm so nicely, feel premium, and fish premium. I can still cast quite far with them. If I were you I wouldn't hesitate to try a Bantam. A Metanium MGL might be nice too but you shouldn't have to replace parts on a brand new premium reel just to bring it to the level you'd expect for the money you're paying for it. And, it depends if your rods are tip heavy or not. An unbalanced rod with a light reel might be more fatiguing than a balanced rod with a heavy (relatively) reel.
Bantam gets my vote, but I'm biased.
FrankN209 reply :
On 8/1/2019 at 2:16 AM, bwjay said:I have two Bantams (HG and XG) and love them for all techniques. They are ultra smooth and rigid. The weight is not an issue to me as they balance out my slightly tip heavy Helium3s but not completely. A lighter reel would make them more unbalanced. That being said, I bought a Chronarch MGL to try and while it can really bomb baits, the construction makes it feel less premium than a Bantam, and I was able to feel the "geary" feeling after only an hour of time on it. It is smooth but the geary feeling really cheapens it IMO. As nice of a reel as it is, I'm returning it. I bought the XG Bantam after deciding to return the Chronarch and I'm not upset at all about having two Bantams. They palm so nicely, feel premium, and fish premium. I can still cast quite far with them. If I were you I wouldn't hesitate to try a Bantam. A Metanium MGL might be nice too but you shouldn't have to replace parts on a brand new premium reel just to bring it to the level you'd expect for the money you're paying for it. And, it depends if your rods are tip heavy or not. An unbalanced rod with a light reel might be more fatiguing than a balanced rod with a heavy (relatively) reel.
Bantam gets my vote, but I'm biased.
Have you had any of that "geary" feeling with the Bantams? I've heard some reviews that they have. When I was checking out at BPS, it seemed like a nice solid reel and considered buying one for myself.
bwjay reply :
On 8/1/2019 at 3:35 AM, FrankN209 said:Have you had any of that "geary" feeling with the Bantams? I've heard some reviews that they have. When I was checking out at BPS, it seemed like a nice solid reel and considered buying one for myself.
None - basically. After I felt it in the Chronarch I went back to the Bantam and tried to feel it. I can feel the absolute slightest amount when reeling very very slow, but even the slowest retrieve I'd ever do it's basically not there. Just a silky smooth crank, and anything faster than the slowest retrieve it's definitely not there. Even at a moderate-slow crank for a spinnerbait or something (on the HG) it's not there. It's only there if you go super slow and you're paying close attention. If you're actually fishing it's straight up indistinguishable. On the Chronarch however, I noticed vibration in the reel no matter how fast I turned the handle, unless I was burning it for a chatterbait or pulling in the bait for another cast. There is a big difference IMO with the Bantam having practically no gear feeling whatsoever.
iabass8 reply :
Daiwa 2019 Morethan in 8.6 would be my choice for a frog reel over the steez A.
newyorktoiowa57 reply :
Rod will be expride or adrena 72H, so should be well balanced. Other option is levante Perfect pitch.
newyorktoiowa57 reply :
On 8/1/2019 at 4:32 AM, iabass8 said:Daiwa 2019 Morethan in 8.6 would be my choice for a frog reel over the steez A.
Why do you prefer it to the steez?
On 8/1/2019 at 2:16 AM, bwjay said:I have two Bantams (HG and XG) and love them for all techniques. They are ultra smooth and rigid. The weight is not an issue to me as they balance out my slightly tip heavy Helium3s but not completely. A lighter reel would make them more unbalanced. That being said, I bought a Chronarch MGL to try and while it can really bomb baits, the construction makes it feel less premium than a Bantam, and I was able to feel the "geary" feeling after only an hour of time on it. It is smooth but the geary feeling really cheapens it IMO. As nice of a reel as it is, I'm returning it. I bought the XG Bantam after deciding to return the Chronarch and I'm not upset at all about having two Bantams. They palm so nicely, feel premium, and fish premium. I can still cast quite far with them. If I were you I wouldn't hesitate to try a Bantam. A Metanium MGL might be nice too but you shouldn't have to replace parts on a brand new premium reel just to bring it to the level you'd expect for the money you're paying for it. And, it depends if your rods are tip heavy or not. An unbalanced rod with a light reel might be more fatiguing than a balanced rod with a heavy (relatively) reel.
Bantam gets my vote, but I'm biased.
I too have the ChMGL XG and I prefer metal reels.
iabass8 reply :
On 8/1/2019 at 5:10 AM, newyorktoiowa57 said:Why do you prefer it to the steez?
I too have the ChMGL XG and I prefer metal reels.
The 8.6 specifically has a different gear material that is more conducive to frogging.
bwjay reply :
On 8/1/2019 at 6:03 AM, iabass8 said:The 8.6 specifically has a different gear material that is more conducive to frogging.
What do you mean? Is it different than aluminum or brass? And what would make gears more conducive to frogging? By frogging would you abstract that to anything involving high torque requirements (pulling fish through lots of heavy vegetation)?
I haven't heard of any special gear material requirements for high torque. People are using XG reels with both aluminum and brass gears for this application with no issues AFAIK. So to hear someone say "there is special gear material that is more conducive to frogging" all I can think of is snake oil BS.
NHBull reply :
I own them all and the Bantam is on the frog rod. Easy decision!
newyorktoiowa57 reply :
Such a tough decision. Part of me wants the Met DC for the casting distance. Most people seem to be leaning Bantum though. The Bantum does have brass gears and a smaller profile, and at a lower price.
umckibben reply :
I use a Shimano Exsence DC for froggin, and have a couple steez A's, I think the A's would do the job just fine, I do like the frame on the steez, I think it would be more comfortable throughout the day over the newer shimano style of the Mets, the bantam is a nicer palming reel too but I have yet to use one...
iabass8 reply :
On 8/1/2019 at 6:07 AM, bwjay said:What do you mean? Is it different than aluminum or brass? And what would make gears more conducive to frogging? By frogging would you abstract that to anything involving high torque requirements (pulling fish through lots of heavy vegetation)?
I haven't heard of any special gear material requirements for high torque. People are using XG reels with both aluminum and brass gears for this application with no issues AFAIK. So to hear someone say "there is special gear material that is more conducive to frogging" all I can think of is snake oil BS.
Gear speed has nothing do to with the point. People using or not using XG reels for specific applications has nothing to do with what I said. Not sure why you jumped to that point or even concluded that from my statement but whatever. I'm referring to gear material. In that, yes, there is a difference.
The Steez SV TW and Steez A use a duralumnium. Durable? Yes. I own multiples of both variants. Specifically, I've had to replace the gear set in my Steez SV TW for heavy cover pitching / flipping. I bought the reel specifically for this and will have to replace the gears every 2-3 years and I'm fine /w that. duralumnium gears aren't meant for this but I'm fine /w it. I love the reel.
the morenthan , which is just a JDM variant of the steez A, in lower gear ratios also uses duralumnium. The 8.6 specifically, and only the 8.6, uses a bronze coated gear to help aid in wear from heavy cover use/heavy salt use.
FishTank reply :
I have the Bantam and it is a tank. It would be perfect for frog fishing. I have looked at the Steez A and it don't see it as a frog reel.
Another suggestion is the Revo Toro Beast. This reel is not as refined as the Bantam but it is made to muscle out some fish, plenty of line capacity and there are many different ratios to chose from.
bwjay reply :
On 8/1/2019 at 6:53 AM, iabass8 said:Gear speed has nothing do to with the point. People using or not using XG reels for specific applications has nothing to do with what I said. Not sure why you jumped to that point or even concluded that from my statement but whatever. I'm referring to gear material. In that, yes, there is a difference.
The Steez SV TW and Steez A use a duralumnium. Durable? Yes. I own multiples of both variants. Specifically, I've had to replace the gear set in my Steez SV TW for heavy cover pitching / flipping. I bought the reel specifically for this and will have to replace the gears every 2-3 years and I'm fine /w that. duralumnium gears aren't meant for this but I'm fine /w it. I love the reel.
the morenthan , which is just a JDM variant of the steez A, in lower gear ratios also uses duralumnium. The 8.6 specifically, and only the 8.6, uses a bronze coated gear to help aid in wear from heavy cover use/heavy salt use.
I mentioned gear ratio because a lower ratio means more torque which people like for dragging fish through weeds. I mentioned it because it is the only consideration for gearing that I have read for frogging or heavy cover applications, not actual gear material itself.
I had not heard of "duraluminum" (sounds like a brand name to me) before but now I have. Thanks for the explanation.
newyorktoiowa57 reply :
On 8/1/2019 at 6:55 AM, FishTank said:I have the Bantam and it is a tank. It would be perfect for frog fishing. I have looked at the Steez A and it don't see it as a frog reel.
Another suggestion is the Revo Toro Beast. This reel is not as refined as the Bantam but it is made to muscle out some fish, plenty of line capacity and there are many different ratios to chose from.
I’m not a fan of the refinement offered by abu reels. It’s not better then an SLX even at the higher end.
newyorktoiowa57 reply :
It seems like the Bantum is the clear choice.
FrankN209 reply :
On 8/1/2019 at 7:04 AM, bwjay said:I mentioned gear ratio because a lower ratio means more torque which people like for dragging fish through weeds. I mentioned it because it is the only consideration for gearing that I have read for frogging or heavy cover applications, not actual gear material itself.
I had not heard of "duraluminum" (sounds like a brand name to me) before but now I have. Thanks for the explanation.
Maybe read this, it's interesting.
Duralumin
newyorktoiowa57 reply :
On 8/1/2019 at 2:16 AM, bwjay said:I have two Bantams (HG and XG) and love them for all techniques. They are ultra smooth and rigid. The weight is not an issue to me as they balance out my slightly tip heavy Helium3s but not completely. A lighter reel would make them more unbalanced. That being said, I bought a Chronarch MGL to try and while it can really bomb baits, the construction makes it feel less premium than a Bantam, and I was able to feel the "geary" feeling after only an hour of time on it. It is smooth but the geary feeling really cheapens it IMO. As nice of a reel as it is, I'm returning it. I bought the XG Bantam after deciding to return the Chronarch and I'm not upset at all about having two Bantams. They palm so nicely, feel premium, and fish premium. I can still cast quite far with them. If I were you I wouldn't hesitate to try a Bantam. A Metanium MGL might be nice too but you shouldn't have to replace parts on a brand new premium reel just to bring it to the level you'd expect for the money you're paying for it. And, it depends if your rods are tip heavy or not. An unbalanced rod with a light reel might be more fatiguing than a balanced rod with a heavy (relatively) reel.
Bantam gets my vote, but I'm biased.
How does the casting performance of the Bantum compare to that of the Chronarch?
Not_Here reply :
.
bwjay reply :
On 8/1/2019 at 12:06 PM, newyorktoiowa57 said:How does the casting performance of the Bantum compare to that of the Chronarch?
The Chronarch seems to cast a little more effortlessly, but the Bantam is no slouch either. I'm not a huge fan of THE REEL TEST on YouTube, but he did some casting comparisons and found that the Bantam is pretty close to the Chronarch and Metanium for distance.
FishingGeekTX reply :
Yeah, lots of batnam love. I feel I should try it out too. MOving from a lews superduty and was going to just respool a Met MGL, but this gives me pause.
newyorktoiowa57 reply :
On 8/1/2019 at 1:02 PM, Frog Turds said:I've read good things about the Morethan but never used one...I have 4 Bantams, 3 Mets one of which I swapped out gear set with brass because the duralumin gears chipped out and it was a dedicated froggin reel I was testing to see how it'd hold up for what i put some gear through, well it didnt hold up for long...so far with the brass this season its been good and still one of my dedicated froggers...my other 2 Mets arent used for heavy cover anything...
Bantams are way more solid hands down and meant/shine for workhorse duties...I'll never use duralumin for heavy cover again...
Mets cast better with less effort but almost too easy to spool it with a frog...i can spool a bantam but takes more and I dont have to be as mindful like when i bomb a frog with a Met...bottom line, heavy cover/workhorse = Bantam as far as Shimano goes...
This makes me want to just swap the gears in a Met, which was my original thinking. Bombing the frog makes the fishing way more fun.
On 8/1/2019 at 10:49 PM, bwjay said:The Chronarch seems to cast a little more effortlessly, but the Bantam is no slouch either. I'm not a huge fan of THE REEL TEST on YouTube, but he did some casting comparisons and found that the Bantam is pretty close to the Chronarch and Metanium for distance.
The Met Dc outcasted them all by about 25 feet with a half ounce lipless.
Not_Here reply :
.
The Maestro reply :
I currently have only 1 Bantam but it really ruined me. I was a bit skeptical that the all metal construction would really make a difference but I was wrong. The reel sets a new bar for quality and refinement in a low pro baitcaster. I thought my Curado E's were good but they don't compare to the Bantam. I believe one of the key differences is how they replaced the traditional side plate with the small screw-on hatch. The tolerances are very tight which allows the whole thing to stay rock solid with no play or slop whatsoever. It's nice and small. The MGL spool is a massive upgrade which makes pitching baits totally effortless. It looks, feels and sounds like pure quality. It's just an amazing reel and I plan on buying more of them for my best rods.
freelancer27 reply :
On 8/1/2019 at 6:53 AM, iabass8 said:Gear speed has nothing do to with the point. People using or not using XG reels for specific applications has nothing to do with what I said. Not sure why you jumped to that point or even concluded that from my statement but whatever. I'm referring to gear material. In that, yes, there is a difference.
The Steez SV TW and Steez A use a duralumnium. Durable? Yes. I own multiples of both variants. Specifically, I've had to replace the gear set in my Steez SV TW for heavy cover pitching / flipping. I bought the reel specifically for this and will have to replace the gears every 2-3 years and I'm fine /w that. duralumnium gears aren't meant for this but I'm fine /w it. I love the reel.
the morenthan , which is just a JDM variant of the steez A, in lower gear ratios also uses duralumnium. The 8.6 specifically, and only the 8.6, uses a bronze coated gear to help aid in wear from heavy cover use/heavy salt use.
I can only add both thumbs up for the recommendation of the 8.6 Morethan. I am using mine (with a Steez A spool for more line capacity) on my Steez XBD frog rod. AMAZING combo. Played with the idea to put my Steez A on it, but I think the Morethan is just another beast with the bronze gears. My smoothest reel (smoother than Antares DC, Steez SV TW, etc.), casts a mile and is just a work horse with the large handle.
I would not use a Metanium (the gears are just not sturdy enough in my opinion) and the Bantam just does not have line capacity in my opinion if one runs anything heavier than 50pound braid and likes to bomb cast frogs.
I tried the Bantam and it did not feel very smooth, nevertheless a decent reel, just would not be my first choice.
bwjay reply :
On 8/2/2019 at 4:13 AM, freelancer27 said:I tried the Bantam and it did not feel very smooth, nevertheless a decent reel, just would not be my first choice.
Was it in a puddle of mud? 
The Bantam has a unanimous reputation for being ultra smooth. Perhaps the one you tried was defective.
freelancer27 reply :
On 8/2/2019 at 4:51 AM, bwjay said:Was it in a puddle of mud?
That might be the case. But I have NEVER heard anybody claim that the Bantam was smoother than a Steez, a Conquest or Antares.
After all the Bantam is 'just' a 240 USD reel. To be honest though, I felt that my Curado K was smoother. Again, my experience seems to be confirmed by some of the reputable youtubers out there.
bwjay reply :
On 8/2/2019 at 4:55 AM, freelancer27 said:That might be the case. But I have NEVER heard anybody claim that the Bantam was smoother than a Steez, a Conquest or Antares.
After all the Bantam is 'just' a 240 USD reel. To be honest though, I felt that my Curado K was smoother. Again, my experience seems to be confirmed by some of the reputable youtubers out there.
The Bantam is $349 USD right now, and even with JDM prices it's still $300. I have read and heard MANY people say it's like a low profile Conquest. I haven't seen anyone say it's BETTER than those reels, but matching the Antares and Conquest, absolutely.
freelancer27 reply :
On 8/2/2019 at 4:59 AM, bwjay said:The Bantam is $349 USD right now, and even with JDM prices it's still $300. I have read and heard MANY people say it's like a low profile Conquest. I haven't seen anyone say it's BETTER than those reels, but matching the Antares and Conquest, absolutely.
267 USD shipped on digitaka.
Well, dont want to start a non necessary discussion here. To me it was a good step behind some other reels I own. Happy if it is the best for you, this will save you a LOT of money.
bwjay reply :
On 8/2/2019 at 5:03 AM, freelancer27 said:267 USD shipped on digitaka.
Well, dont want to start a non necessary discussion here. To me it was a good step behind some other reels I own. Happy if it is the best for you, this will save you a LOT of money.
Ah, looks like it has come down in price. I'm sorry to hear the one you tried was bad but I can assure you that the 3 I've tried (1 at Cabela's and 2 that I own) are fantastic, and other reputable names agree (TackleTour, TacticalBassin, to name two).
freelancer27 reply :
On 8/2/2019 at 5:25 AM, bwjay said:Ah, looks like it has come down in price. I'm sorry to hear the one you tried was bad but I can assure you that the 3 I've tried (1 at Cabela's and 2 that I own) are fantastic, and other reputable names agree (TackleTour, TacticalBassin, to name two).
I am sure that they are smooth. Try a 2019 Morethan 8.6 and then we talk again 
BaitFinesse reply :
On 8/2/2019 at 7:17 AM, freelancer27 said:I am sure that they are smooth. Try a 2019 Morethan 8.6 and then we talk again
Stop making me want to buy the new Morethan.
newyorktoiowa57 reply :
On 8/2/2019 at 7:17 AM, freelancer27 said:I am sure that they are smooth. Try a 2019 Morethan 8.6 and then we talk again
I don't wanna buy a morethan at the price, especially since I would need to do a spool swap.
freelancer27 reply :
On 8/2/2019 at 8:34 AM, newyorktoiowa57 said:I don't wanna buy a morethan at the price, especially since I would need to do a spool swap.
Fair enough. To be fair, you could run the Morethan spool with 50 pound braid and still get a good amount on it.
Just to put this into perspective, since I dont just want to recommend expensive toys.
I have a Antares DC MD, Steez SV TW, Steez CT SV TW, Steez A, Conques 401 and none of them is as smooth as the 2019 Morethan.
To be fair though. The 6.3 Curado K is incredibly smooth (regardless of price) as well.
It is just a lot of fun to fish with the Morethan. Would I wait another month and save up for it? Sure would do!
newyorktoiowa57 reply :
Another option might be the new 13 concept boss.
On 8/2/2019 at 8:43 AM, freelancer27 said:Fair enough. To be fair, you could run the Morethan spool with 50 pound braid and still get a good amount on it.
Just to put this into perspective, since I dont just want to recommend expensive toys.
I have a Antares DC MD, Steez SV TW, Steez CT SV TW, Steez A, Conques 401 and none of them is as smooth as the 2019 Morethan.
To be fair though. The 6.3 Curado K is incredibly smooth (regardless of price) as well.
It is just a lot of fun to fish with the Morethan. Would I wait another month and save up for it? Sure would do!
I too have the K in that ratio. I love it for spinnerbaits! It is too wide for frogging though IMO. How do you like the Antares? The Excense is supposedly a smaller profile but the same breaking system.
NHBull reply :
Get a conquest and call it a day. Absolutely love mine! It puts the the others you mentioned to shame
newyorktoiowa57 reply :
On 8/2/2019 at 9:16 AM, NHBull said:Get a conquest and call it a day. Absolutely love mine! It puts the the others you mentioned to shame
The ratios are too slow for frogging
NHBull reply :
On 8/2/2019 at 9:17 AM, newyorktoiowa57 said:The ratios are too slow for frogging
Check IPT and go with longer handles.
newyorktoiowa57 reply :
On 8/2/2019 at 9:22 AM, NHBull said:Check IPT and go with longer handles.
I need at least 33'' for frogging, plus it probably won't be comfortable to palm.
umckibben reply :
Any thought about a '12 exsence DC? Used one can be had on Ebay for good price, excellent froggin reel imo!
newyorktoiowa57 reply :
On 8/2/2019 at 9:29 AM, umckibben said:Any thought about a '12 exsence DC? Used one can be had on Ebay for good price, excellent froggin reel imo!
I have yes! Only downside is the size, and I've never really bought used reels before.
NHBull reply :
On 8/2/2019 at 9:25 AM, newyorktoiowa57 said:I need at least 33'' for frogging, plus it probably won't be comfortable to palm.
100 HG is 30.3 IPT and easy palmable
freelancer27 reply :
On 8/2/2019 at 8:53 AM, newyorktoiowa57 said:Another option might be the new 13 concept boss.
I too have the K in that ratio. I love it for spinnerbaits! It is too wide for frogging though IMO. How do you like the Antares? The Excense is supposedly a smaller profile but the same breaking system.
I had the 2016 Antares DC and now have the 2018 Antares DC MD. The later has a big spool so it is perfect for putting heavier line on it. Mine is sitting currently in its box, since I dont have a use for it. But might be going on my frogging rod if I find a better use for the Morethan.
Great reel but consider the weight for frogging since it you frog all day, the weight of your combo will take a toll on your wrist and arm.
newyorktoiowa57 reply :
On 8/2/2019 at 10:11 AM, freelancer27 said:I had the 2016 Antares DC and now have the 2018 Antares DC MD. The later has a big spool so it is perfect for putting heavier line on it. Mine is sitting currently in its box, since I dont have a use for it. But might be going on my frogging rod if I find a better use for the Morethan.
Great reel but consider the weight for frogging since it you frog all day, the weight of your combo will take a toll on your wrist and arm.
Yea, thats why I originally was thinking Met with a gear swap.
craww reply :
On 8/2/2019 at 9:36 AM, newyorktoiowa57 said:I have yes! Only downside is the size, and I've never really bought used reels before.
That guys a smart man...Ive owned all of these but the Steez- and the exsence got picked up over them when i owned the others. That platform is the peak of shimanodom, with the x-ship/gear ratio its an amazing frog reel and would be my first recommendation for tip-down, power-oriented presentations. I spend alot of time throwing 1/2oz buzzbaits into heavy cover & am picky. Absolutely LOVE that reel in that role, which is similar to frogging in many respects.
newyorktoiowa57 reply :
On 8/2/2019 at 11:26 AM, craww said:That guys a smart man...Ive owned all of these but the Steez- and the exsence got picked up over them when i owned the others. That platform is the peak of shimanodom, with the x-ship/gear ratio its an amazing frog reel and would be my first recommendation for tip-down, power-oriented presentations. I spend alot of time throwing 1/2oz buzzbaits into heavy cover & am picky. Absolutely LOVE that reel in that role, which is similar to frogging in many respects.
Is the casting distance really that good?
Chief250 reply :
I would think most frog rods would balance better with the heavier bantam. My 7'5 envy black 2 H feels best with my bantam. Ive tried my chronarch, metanium and aldebarans but thr bantam balances best. I was always a lightest reel guy until I felt a balanced longer setup.
craww reply :
On 8/2/2019 at 11:41 AM, newyorktoiowa57 said:Is the casting distance really that good?
I compared the metanium to the exsence directly casting 5/8 rattlin vibes w/12lb Hybrid- both had been flushed and lubed w/a drop of Rem oil the day before. Aiming at a specific target, it was pretty much dead even depending on my mechanics...Splitting hairs; the metanium eaked out the farthest cast (actually hitting the target) but the DC gave a more consistent group.
Both of them will bomb as far as I want to set a hook on a frog lol. That said, personally I think alot of the reasons we’re seeing so many gear issues w/the current Shimanos is the micro module teeth while used w/unforgiving braid. For that reason alone I think the old school gears w/the double support of the X-Ship is the better tool. Again- maybe splitting hairs.
newyorktoiowa57 reply :
On 8/2/2019 at 2:25 PM, Cheif250 said:I would think most frog rods would balance better with the heavier bantam. My 7'5 envy black 2 H feels best with my bantam. Ive tried my chronarch, metanium and aldebarans but thr bantam balances best. I was always a lightest reel guy until I felt a balanced longer setup.
The rod will be a 72H expride or PA, so should be well balanced but a heavier reel will only help.
newyorktoiowa57 reply :
At the moment I am thinking Bantum on an expride.
NHBull reply :
I through some frogs on an Alpha Zilla with a Bantam is it balances well.
You will be happy!
Mikeltee reply :
On 8/2/2019 at 5:03 AM, freelancer27 said:267 USD shipped on digitaka.
Well, dont want to start a non necessary discussion here. To me it was a good step behind some other reels I own. Happy if it is the best for you, this will save you a LOT of money.
I'd like to know what you feel is better. You dont have to prove any points with me anyways. PM if you want to. Also the website you mentioned uses yen I believe. Is there a USD option at checkout? I could wait a few weeks for shipping for savings like that.
freelancer27 reply :
On 8/2/2019 at 2:25 PM, Cheif250 said:I would think most frog rods would balance better with the heavier bantam. My 7'5 envy black 2 H feels best with my bantam. Ive tried my chronarch, metanium and aldebarans but thr bantam balances best. I was always a lightest reel guy until I felt a balanced longer setup.
In my opinion:
The More than is absolute the smoothest reel. Again, the bantam did not feel bad. It just left this slight metallic feeling that brass gears do in my opinion.
Handle and handle knobs also feel better in my opinion. Can't go wrong with the bantam for 267 usd shipped. Digital is a trusted site. It takes less than a week for my order to arrive.
Cheers
scbassin reply :
The Bantam mgl is the way to go just check out the frame construction. I purchased the Japanese Bantam mgl for it was $85 + cheaper.
newyorktoiowa57 reply :
On 8/3/2019 at 11:39 PM, scbassin said:The Bantam mgl is the way to go just check out the frame construction. I purchased the Japanese Bantam mgl for it was $85 + cheaper.
Yea, that’s what I’m gonna end up going with when I get enough saved up.
Cgrinder reply :
Bantam XG is a freakin winch. I can confirm it feels a lot like a Conquest. Distance casting is nice as well; two brakes on with 2 to 3 on the dial and a little side to side play in the spool makes the frogs fly. It feels a lot like a Daiwa honestly.
bwjay reply :
On 8/5/2019 at 10:50 AM, Cgrinder said:Bantam XG is a freakin winch. I can confirm it feels a lot like a Conquest. Distance casting is nice as well; two brakes on with 2 to 3 on the dial and a little side to side play in the spool makes the frogs fly. It feels a lot like a Daiwa honestly.
I feel like if I loosened my spool tension that much I would instantly blow up the reel. lol
Cgrinder reply :
On 8/5/2019 at 10:52 AM, bwjay said:I feel like if I loosened my spool tension that much I would instantly blow up the reel. lol
My baitcasting performance and consistency increased dramatically the day I stopped using the spool tension knob as a brake. Let the brakes do their job; start on max and work your way down. YMMV but it's been hot.
newyorktoiowa57 reply :
On 8/5/2019 at 10:50 AM, Cgrinder said:Bantam XG is a freakin winch. I can confirm it feels a lot like a Conquest. Distance casting is nice as well; two brakes on with 2 to 3 on the dial and a little side to side play in the spool makes the frogs fly. It feels a lot like a Daiwa honestly.
Which diawas do you have?
johnD. reply :
Steez A would be my first pick , Bantam 2nd pick..Digitaka will have the best prices.
newyorktoiowa57 reply :
On 8/5/2019 at 10:54 PM, johnD. said:Steez A would be my first pick , Bantam 2nd pick..Digitaka will have the best prices.
Do you think it can hold up to frogging?
johnD. reply :
On 8/5/2019 at 10:56 PM, newyorktoiowa57 said:Do you think it can hold up to frogging?
Without a doubt.
Scrapiron reply :
Another vote for the Steez A- rock solid platform.
newyorktoiowa57 reply :
On 8/6/2019 at 12:30 AM, Scrapiron said:Another vote for the Steez A- rock solid platform.
Is it a bomb caster?
newyorktoiowa57 reply :
I wish I could handle these reels In Person but there is no shop near me which would make that possible.
freelancer27 reply :
On 8/6/2019 at 1:40 AM, newyorktoiowa57 said:Is it a bomb caster?
I is absolutely! I use my Steez A for other things (heavy jigs and paddle tail swimbaits) but it can def be used for frogging. The bigger spool will help you here in two ways: 1. Bigger spools tend to be better casters with heavier weights. 2. It will hold more (heavier) line
I would go with the 8.1:1 version from Digitaka!
newyorktoiowa57 reply :
On 8/6/2019 at 2:48 AM, freelancer27 said:I is absolutely! I use my Steez A for other things (heavy jigs and paddle tail swimbaits) but it can def be used for frogging. The bigger spool will help you here in two ways: 1. Bigger spools tend to be better casters with heavier weights. 2. It will hold more (heavier) line
I would go with the 8.1:1 version from Digitaka!
So you like it better then the Bantum?
Cgrinder reply :
On 8/5/2019 at 9:58 PM, newyorktoiowa57 said:Which diawas do you have?
Currently, relevant to this thread, Sv103 and an OG Zillion. I would like to have a Steez A and may at some point.
What I mean by the Daiwa comment is setting up the Bantam feels a lot like a Mag Z Daiwa. It seems to like no spool tension, moderate-high brakes, and a smooth easy cast.
FishingGeekTX reply :
On 8/6/2019 at 1:59 AM, newyorktoiowa57 said:I wish I could handle these reels In Person but there is no shop near me which would make that possible.
https://www.tacklewarehouse.com/demoprogram.html
KP Duty reply :
All those choices will cast plenty far. The one that palms the best for your hand, and how it meshes with the reel seat of the rod you've chosen would be the main factors for me. Unfortunately, you cant take your rod to bass pro and try each reel on it....they dont carry the high-end lines anymore.
newyorktoiowa57 reply :
On 8/7/2019 at 10:22 PM, KP Duty said:All those choices will cast plenty far. The one that palms the best for your hand, and how it meshes with the reel seat of the rod you've chosen would be the main factors for me. Unfortunately, you cant take your rod to bass pro and try each reel on it....they dont carry the high-end lines anymore.
Yea, they don’t have reels above the Chronarch or Curado DC at mine. No rods above BPS patriot/Avid X either.
newyorktoiowa57 reply :
The rod is going to be the new Poison Adrena 72 heavy.
new2BC4bass reply :
On 8/9/2019 at 1:51 AM, newyorktoiowa57 said:The rod is going to be the new Poison Adrena 72 heavy.
Nice!
Yumeya reply :
I would take the Metanium, but have never tried the Bantam.
newyorktoiowa57 reply :
On 8/9/2019 at 3:42 AM, Yumeya said:I would take the Metanium, but have never tried the Bantam.
I’m gonna end up getting the Met. The heart wants what the heart wants, and my heart wants the Met regardless of how many people say Bantum. I’m gonna get the gears changed though.
FishingGeekTX reply :
I don't think you'll be disappointed in the Metanium.
The Maestro reply :
Let us know what you think of the Poison Adrena. There's practically no user reviews on them even though they've been out for a while. They look killer though.
newyorktoiowa57 reply :
On 8/9/2019 at 7:58 AM, The Maestro said:Let us know what you think of the Poison Adrena. There's practically no user reviews on them even though they've been out for a while. They look killer though.
Will do! I’m not sure when I will actually get it, but I have one coming. I also haven’t really found any reviews.
Yumeya reply :
On 8/9/2019 at 3:49 AM, newyorktoiowa57 said:I’m gonna end up getting the Met. The heart wants what the heart wants, and my heart wants the Met regardless of how many people say Bantum. I’m gonna get the gears changed though.
Use it until it needs new gears is what I would do.
I used Curado K brass main gears in two of my Metaniums.
newyorktoiowa57 reply :
On 8/9/2019 at 4:56 PM, Yumeya said:Use it until it needs new gears is what I would do.
I used Curado K brass main gears in two of my Metaniums.
How many Mets do you have? I know you use basically all Mets haha but I am just trying to gauge how common the issue is.
Maico1 reply :
On 8/9/2019 at 10:55 PM, newyorktoiowa57 said:How many Mets do you have? I know you use basically all Mets haha but I am just trying to gauge how common the issue is.
Have been using a Met MGL for 3 years mounted on a NRX 893C tossing weightless senkos . With that said haven't had an issue with the pinion or main and yes I bought a set of new gears but have yet to install them. My feeling is if you keep the gears greased and do not run them dry you will be good. Have also found that ZPI F-0 Medium Grease holds longer than the Ace 2.......
Yumeya reply :
On 8/9/2019 at 10:55 PM, newyorktoiowa57 said:How many Mets do you have? I know you use basically all Mets haha but I am just trying to gauge how common the issue is.
I have 3, none of the gears ever went bad, on one of them I could kinda feel the gears (metanium 13) so at the time I just switched them all at once and the brass even makes them smoother.
related Fishing Rods Reels Line Knots topic
most viewed Fishing Rods Reels Line Knots topic
© 2024 - fishing.qciss.net. All Rights Reserved.