Why Isn't Quantum More Popular? 2024
TNBassin' reply :
Maybe it's just this site, but Quantum fans are few and far between. They seem to actively market their gear more aggressively than any of the other reel manufacturers, and with KVD on board they pretty much have the Michael Jordan of fishing as they face of their brand. What is it about Quantum that seemingly makes it the black sheep of the big boys?
iabass8 reply :
MCS reply :
I don't know TN but the quantums I use and/or own all have been good. I think people tend to follow others lead. I have daiwa and Abu and quantum holds their own. Energy PTs have been great for a long time, smokes have a good following. The tour edition and now tour mg are great reels at decent prices. The ACS breaking system is the bees knees. However I tend to not like the KVD stuff or some of their cheaper offerings but the code, accurist and kinetic are ok. I am not really into their rods either. But the ACS reels are where it's at. For 100-160 u can pick up an older energy pt or tour edition and have a great reel that is in a 200 class and now the smoke is coming down in price
ABW reply :
Maybe because their stuff is made in China? Then again, a lot of stuff is made in China
LMB KING reply :
LOL, I have a feeling you did this to start an argument. 
But I am a diehard Quantum fan, I have used every brand that exist, all have failed me, except for quantum and other brands that are unusual for bass fishing. Quantum is used by some of the best bass fishermen in the world. I don't understand why people hate quantum. As long as i am breathing, i will continue to buy quantum.
aavery2 reply :
They have about 17 models of baitcasters and 20 models of spinning reels, how many can you name?
TNBassin' reply :
On 6/28/2014 at 9:41 AM, LMB KING said:LOL, I have a feeling you did this to start an argument.
No I really didn't. I was watching some MLF on my laptop and saw Biffle using the EXO gear and got me to thinking about how I never see anyone on here talk about Quantum much.
MCS reply :
Don't u quantum haters need to go oil a brake or something? Lol
Flywatersmallie reply :
Quantum stuff is IMO solid at each respective price point. I've got about 30 reels, 10 of those for sure are Quantum. When it comes to rods/reels, I am no longer brand loyal at all. I buy what fits my intended purpose. Fairly often that is the big Q. In fact, today I bought 3 Quantum Accurist spinning reels. I absolutely didn't need them but the deal was too good to pass up at $40 apiece. Their stuff is well built, well designed and durable and recently, just as light as other companies' products. Weight of their reels used to be one major gripe, no more. Don't have any real world experience with their rods so I cant really comment there.
MCS reply :
I wouldn't say I am brand loyal to quantum I definitely like them a little more because they are the underdog. But right now with quantum swapping out models like mentioned you can get a serious bang for your buck. The new tour mg deffinately ups the anti with a sub 300 magnesium reel that so far is solid. The Exo as much as I hear the weekend angler gripe about their side plate are probably the most used of their model by pros.
Kevin22 reply :
I have used, and still do use quantum energy reels. Solid reels.
JGBassinAL reply :
Y'all are all crazy Quantum sucks and makes the worst reels I have never used. Haha just kidding guys, notice I said "never" used.
LMB KING reply :
True, All i hear is about the daiwas the lews , the shimanos and the abus. I gets boring after a while taking about the same gear over and over, but i never hear nobody talk about quantum. If some of the best bass fishermen uses quantum, then i will definitely use it and try it out. I had try them all.This is why i am very loyal to certain brands like quantum, but hey everybody has their brands.
TNBassin' reply :
I guess the fishing world isn't really like any of the other sports when it comes to having the big names pimp your gear. Having KVD as the face of your brand isn't gonna move rods and reels the same way having MJ wear your company's sneakers, but I figured it would help a little. I don't think I've ever bought a rod or reel because a certain pro uses it, but I've tried lures that the big name guys have used to win tourneys though. Still, I honestly don't see what Quantum is missing that makes them SEEMINGLY less popular than Shimano/Lews/Abu/and even Bass Pro Qualifiers.
SenkoGuru reply :
Quantum has some good stuff, I do not dislike Quantum, I just like Daiwa better. I own three or four Quantum reels, a Smoke 150 a few Energy's and some of the KVD reels. I also own a couple of Smoke Rod's. The Problem is I just don't fish with it. It sits in my game room on the rack unless my Son goes fishing with me and then his favorite set up is the Quantum Smoke rod and reel.
LMB KING reply :
I also believe that their lack of product advertisement is hurting the company. They don't advertise as much as shimano and abu. In this competitive sport, they need to step their game up because people are the back bone of the company, and right now it seems like the shimano brand is winning that competition.
21farms reply :
i have owned three quantum reels and one smoke rod. every quantum reel in the last 5 years has a hump around the brake dial that makes palming for me very uncomfortable. worse, they repeat that same characteristic hump in every "new" reel they come out with and is a deal-breaker for me. i'm actually very turned off by KVD and the plethora of other pros on TV pushing them...i think it's over the top and actually makes me leery of the brand. the other thing that pops into my head is that (and maybe this is just perception) it seems like they're more concerned about the bling and marketing instead of the substance.
TNBassin' reply :
Tommy Biffle, Gary Klein, KVD...who else uses Quantum? Besides Ike using Abu, and Cliff using Shimano, I can't really think of anyone off the top of my head who uses what. I think Takahiro Omori uses Daiwa and so does Ish. And I honestly never see Abu commercials anymore, and thankfully I don't see Zona and Mercer Shimano commercials anymore either. Quantum commercials and ads I've seen always seem pretty well done.
OntarioFishingGuy reply :
Gerald swindle uses quantum. And I haves seen some of those zona/mercer commercials...
iabass8 reply :
I absolutely cannot stand listening to Gary Klien proclaim that he couldn't have caught this fish without this amazing Quantum rod and reel. It's just so lightweight and sensitive I swear the guy says it after every fish he catches. It's almost as if he interrupts himself just to say that and then gets back on track.
MCS reply :
Grigsby, hackney, klien, Ashley and of course bill dance are the rest of the pros.
TNBassin' reply :
On 6/28/2014 at 11:22 AM, iabass8 said:I absolutely cannot stand listening to Gary Klien proclaim that he couldn't have caught this fish without this amazing Quantum rod and reel. It's just so lightweight and sensitive I swear the guy says it after every fish he catches. It's almost as if he interrupts himself just to say that and then gets back on track.
I noticed he does this a lot on MLF. He was plugging his Smoke reel, and like you said he goes back to just fishing. Having to pimp your sponsors seems like a double edged sword, but you gotta do it if you wanna be a pro I guess.
LMB KING reply :
On 6/28/2014 at 11:13 AM, TNBassin said:Tommy Biffle, Gary Klein, KVD...who else uses Quantum? Besides Ike using Abu, and Cliff using Shimano, I can't really think of anyone off the top of my head who uses what. I think Takahiro Omori uses Daiwa and so does Ish. And I honestly never see Abu commercials anymore, and thankfully I don't see Zona and Mercer Shimano commercials anymore either. Quantum commercials and ads I've seen always seem pretty well done.
WHAT!! LOL some of the best in the industry use Quantum. KVD, Bill dance, Gary klein, Tommy biffle, shaw grigsby and Casey ashley to name a few.
A-Jay reply :
All caught on this Quantum KVD Reel.
Seems to work OK for me.
A-Jay
Dan: reply :
Historically, I think Quantum seems to invest in pro sponsorships a lot more than Abu/Shimano/Daiwa, maybe that's started to change more recently.
I think Abu seems to have figured out a good balance of sponsorships, other marketing, and product and that's why they've got a bigger piece of the pie than the others.
LMB KING reply :
On 6/28/2014 at 11:28 AM, A-Jay said:
All caught on this Quantum KVD Reel.
KVD Reel 1.jpg
Seems to work OK for me.
A-Jay
WOW!!! I SOLUTE YOU 
LOL now we are really gonna have some quantum haters show up....
QUAKEnSHAKE reply :
Dont use the reels much but do have an old 1993 or so snapshot trigger spinning reel that still good. I absolutely think the Smoke rod is a great product.
A-Jay reply :
On 6/28/2014 at 11:42 AM, LMB KING said:WOW!!! I SOLUTE YOU
Thanks, but I was just trying to make a point.
IMO, My "Brand is better than Your Brand" threads are perhaps my least favorite topics on the entire BR fishing forum. Rarely if ever, do these threads add anything constructive to what is otherwise such an excellent site. I can't even call them entertaining as they routinely cause disharmony.
Question regarding certain brands / models are routinely answered with adequate information provided by members who have little experience using the equipment. Posts offering the opportunity to debate brand quality, performance and dependability, illicit responses that appear defensive, misrepresented and hard to interpret; completely different from so many of the high quality responses elsewhere on the forum.
A-Jay
bootytrain reply :
I rarely if ever see shimano advertise when I see fishing tournaments on tv. Its all quantum and Abu. Heck I even know quantums slogan catch phrase from hearing it so much. "Fishing at a quantum level" LOLOn 6/28/2014 at 11:00 AM, LMB KING said:I also believe that their lack of product advertisement is hurting the company. They don't advertise as much as shimano and abu. In this competitive sport, they need to step their game up because people are the back bone of the company, and right now it seems like the shimano brand is winning that competition.
TNBassin' reply :
I just don't really pay attention to who uses what in fishing.On 6/28/2014 at 11:25 AM, LMB KING said:WHAT!! LOL some of the best in the industry use Quantum. KVD, Bill dance, Gary klein, Tommy biffle, shaw grigsby and Casey ashley to name a few.
LMB KING reply :
On 6/28/2014 at 11:49 AM, bootytrain said:I rarely if ever see shimano advertise when I see fishing tournaments on tv. Its all quantum and Abu. Heck I even know quantums slogan catch phrase from hearing it so much. "Fishing at a quantum level" LOL
"Quantum hater alert" All i see on the internet is shimano shimano shimano and shimano. If you go to TWH, they even have a shimano button on their website LOL, that's crazy. Shimano is over advertised.
Raul reply :
Two of the worse reels I've owned were Quantum, the other was Abu. The only Quantum rod I've owned was the worse rod I've owned. So I don't think I'll purchase any of their products in the future.
Dan: reply :
On 6/28/2014 at 11:57 AM, LMB KING said:"Quantum hater alert" All i see on the internet is shimano shimano shimano and shimano. If you go to TWH, they even have a shimano button on their website LOL, that's crazy. Shimano is over advertised.
Besides TW, where do you see Shimano advertised online? I agree that they get more air time on some of the blogs but I'd hesitate to say that's due to more advertising.
As far as TV and tournament stuff, Quantum has always advertised more than Abu and WAY more than Daiwa or Shimano.
bootytrain reply :
I'd actually have to give a d@mn about quantum first before I started to hate them.. I dont see any "quantum hate" anywhere, its just that nobody really cares about them... So try again.On 6/28/2014 at 11:57 AM, LMB KING said:"Quantum hater alert" All i see on the internet is shimano shimano shimano and shimano. If you go to TWH, they even have a shimano button on their website LOL, that's crazy. Shimano is over advertised.
LMB KING reply :
KNOWLEDGE IS POWER!!!
aavery2 reply :
while Zebco has a long storied past in American fishing, I think most of us think back to the model 202 and 33 when we hear the name. Unfortunately spincast reels are most often associated with entry level beginner type equipment. I think the association from Zebco to Quantum has hurt Quantum some. Also I think they have too many products, many of them are lower end equipment and frankly a lot of them are lower quality. I wish they would just pick 7-8 models and really develop them instead of working of 17 -20 models. Quantum also hurt themselves some several years back with reels that had poor quality control, the finishes on the reels were very bad.
Every major brand has reels in their lineup that are great, Shimano has the Curado, Daiwa has the Zillion, Abu has the Premier, etc. etc. Quantum needs to establish a reel in their lineup that has the same known consistency for quality.
Not bad reels, bad marketing in my opinion.
LMB KING reply :
On 6/28/2014 at 12:10 PM, aavery2 said:while Zebco has a long storied past in American fishing, I think most of us think back to the model 202 and 33 when we hear the name. Unfortunately spincast reels are most often associated with entry level beginner type equipment. I think the association from Zebco to Quantum has hurt Quantum some. Also I think they have too many products, many of them are lower end equipment and frankly a lot of them are lower quality. I wish they would just pick 7-8 models and really develop them instead of working of 17 -20 models. Quantum also hurt themselves some several years back with reels that had poor quality control, the finishes on the reels were very bad.
Every major brand has reels in their lineup that are great, Shimano has the Curado, Daiwa has the Zillion, Abu has the Premier, etc. etc. Quantum needs to establish a reel in their lineup that has the same known consistency for quality.
Not bad reels, bad marketing in my opinion.
Quantum flagship reel has always been the KVD reel. Any person will tell you that. If quantum used to have bad quality control, than shimano has bad QC now because i gave shimano more than 5 try and all have failed me, I even use a shimano saltwater reel for bass and it broke on a 5 pound bass, and that gear was meant for tarpon and snook LOL.
TNBassin' reply :
Quantum's flagship reel is the EXO or the KVD reel?
LMB KING reply :
On 6/28/2014 at 12:28 PM, TNBassin said:Quantum's flagship reel is the EXO or the KVD reel?
KVD is their Flagship. Just like shimano flagship is curado, its also the best selling reel shimano makes in the freshwater section. Daiwa i think is the Zillon.
bootytrain reply :
On 6/28/2014 at 12:34 PM, LMB KING said:KVD is their Flagship. Just like shimano flagship is curado, its also the best selling reel shimano makes in the freshwater section. Daiwa i think is the Zillon.
Curado is shimano flagship? As if you had no credibility before lol.
aavery2 reply :
On 6/28/2014 at 12:27 PM, LMB KING said:Quantum flagship reel has always been the KVD reel. Any person will tell you that. If quantum used to have bad quality control, than shimano has bad QC now because i gave shimano more than 5 try and all have failed me, I even use a shimano saltwater reel for bass and it broke on a 5 pound bass, and that gear was meant for tarpon and snook LOL.
Well I quess I have been around fishing a little longer than you, because I can remember a time when there was no KVD reel. Honestly if you asked me what their top reel was I probably would not have known, I assumed that the new Mag reel was their flagship model now. Again, I think it is a case of too many models and poor marketing. One thing I find odd is when one of the major three companies come out with a new reel, there is talk about it for a month of so before, when Quantum released their Mag. reel I seen no advertising or heard no chatter about it on any of the forums I attend.
I can tell you in my neck of the woods, Quantum has very little following. There are a few guys that own the Smoke or EXO, but as a whole their market share in our area is very low.
iabass8 reply :
On 6/28/2014 at 12:34 PM, LMB KING said:KVD is their Flagship. Just like shimano flagship is curado, its also the best selling reel shimano makes in the freshwater section. Daiwa i think is the Zillon.
Before you begin on an endless spew of nonsense...perhaps have an understanding as to what a "flagship" reel is...
aavery2 reply :
On 6/28/2014 at 12:34 PM, LMB KING said:KVD is their Flagship. Just like shimano flagship is curado, its also the best selling reel shimano makes in the freshwater section. Daiwa i think is the Zillon.
The Curado and Zillion are these company's workhorse reels, but they have others of much higher quality that would be considered their flagship reels. When I hear Daiwa flagship I think Steez and Shimano I think Calais. But even these have changed.
TorqueConverter reply :
On 6/28/2014 at 12:34 PM, LMB KING said:KVD is their Flagship. Just like shimano flagship is curado, its also the best selling reel shimano makes in the freshwater section. Daiwa i think is the Zillon.
Flagship is a tricky subject. If there is such things as Halo reels then the Steez would be Daiwa's Halo reel for example, and "Flagship" would be reserved for reels that are the most well rounded, including MSRP. "Halo" as I've seen it used in the automotive industry, is reserved for high end products that are sold at a loss to convey a image about the brand name. The Lexus LSF is sold at a loss to pimp an image of Lexus cars as being sporty and hip at millennials, for example.
My point in the mindless rant, if I have one, is that halo reels don't exist and flagship is probably best reserved for a companies higher end reels. In any case, the KVD reels are no flagship and are a modern product built to cash in on KVD's household name status. I guess historically the Energy would be their flagship in the past with the Exo/Smoke being their flagship reels today.
LMB KING reply :
Don't confuse Flagship with high end reels. The exo came out because of competition. Reels are getting lighter and lighter so quantum to stay in the competition they came out with one of the lightest reels they ever came out and they came out with the tour MG that is even lighter. The shimano Calais DC is their high end reel $650. Shimano focuses on the curado more than any other reel that's why they keep making improvements every other year
iabass8 reply :
Shimanos flagship reel is the antares/metanium... Not the curado...
TorqueConverter reply :
I forgot in all the silliness, that I own a few Quantums. I've got a 1st gen Accurist, some sort of weird blue Code KVD reel and a current gen Accurist PT. They haven't been bad reels to me and I actually like the Accurist PT a little more than my BPS Pro Qualifier. It looks a lot better sitting on a Veritas too. Quantum reels in the $99 - $120 range are definitely worth a look.
Why aren't they more popular? Any post on "best $100 reel" is blanked with BPS PQ recommendations. This has a tendency to push a lot of people over to the PQ and then this generates additional blanket responses for future "best $100 reel" threads. Once hegemony begins it's hard for outsiders to break in. It doesn't help that Quantum is constantly changing their reels, sometimes just for the sake of changing. Really, how many Accurists have their been in the past 7 years?
LMB KING reply :
On 6/28/2014 at 1:07 PM, iabass8 said:Shimanos flagship reel is the antares/metanium... Not the curado...
LOL i never even heard of those reels. Maybe their not as popular as curado, so their is no way that those are shimanos flagship. Flagship also has to be the best selling reels to become a flagship, If it does not sell, then its not a flagship, I dont think the average consumer will pay $600 for a reel. LOL some of you guys here are funny and are very denial. We all understand that you love shimano so much that thats the only reel you'll probably buy.
bootytrain reply :
On 6/28/2014 at 12:47 PM, iabass8 said:Before you begin on an endless spew of nonsense...perhaps have an understanding as to what a "flagship" reel is...
Dudes just trolling
LMB KING reply :
On 6/28/2014 at 1:24 PM, bootytrain said:Dudes just trolling
Sorry I am old school I don't know what that means. Any how. fare well. too many Quantum haters here. I'm done.
Jon G reply :
I always love to try new reels and rods from different companies but when I drop $160+ on a reel I want to know that it is solid and there wont be any issues. So inorder to make sure im making a good investment I check the reviews. Generally i will not buy a rod or reel unless there are 75% or higher positive reviews. So when I look at Quantum reels and see tons and tons of negative reviews I just dont feel safe buying one. But now im really considering biting the bullet and try one
aavery2 reply :
On 6/28/2014 at 1:24 PM, bootytrain said:Dudes just trolling
Booty, sadly I think he is for real. Reminds me of someone else that had a similar name and was from Fl.
aavery2 reply :
On 6/28/2014 at 1:31 PM, Jon G said:I always love to try new reels and rods from different companies but when I drop $160+ on a reel I want to know that it is solid and there wont be any issues. So inorder to make sure im making a good investment I check the reviews. Generally i will not buy a rod or reel unless there are 75% or higher positive reviews. So when I look at Quantum reels and see tons and tons of negative reviews I just dont feel safe buying one. But now im really considering biting the bullet and try one
Curious as to which model you are thinking of trying.
Josh Smith reply :
I have an old Quantum 1310. It's older, I rebuilt it, and it's a sold reel.
There's just nothing that makes it stand out among its contemporaries, and the same can be said for the current crop, too. I was browsing the fishing stuff in Walmart this evening as I had to go grab some dog food anyway, and there just wasn't much difference between the Quantum and the other reels except that it was priced higher. Actually, there wasn't much difference between the Abu Garcias, the Lews, the Pfluegers, and anything else, either. They all seemed to be made from a single design with the differences being the names.
Honestly, I was just looking for one that didn't say "Made in China." Didn't happen.
I'll consider a new Quantum, for sure, if it feels good and isn't made in China. I like Zebco's stuff.
Josh
TorqueConverter reply :
On 6/28/2014 at 1:24 PM, bootytrain said:Dudes just trolling
I think he has a difference in opinion as to what "flagship" means. I almost want to agree with him because I do believe that a product must also sell well, in addition to other things, to be considered a flagship, but he hasn't exactly laid out a well presented argument as to what his definition of flagship is and why he feels that the reels in question are flagship in this Quantum thread.
Jon G reply :
On 6/28/2014 at 1:34 PM, aavery2 said:Curious as to which model you are thinking of trying.
Either an EXO PT 100 or PT Smoke 100. Its either one of those or a Curado I or a Chronarch Ci4+. Decisions Decisions........
aavery2 reply :
As a metaphor I have always thought that "Flagship" meant high profile or most expensive, maybe I have been using the term incorrectly.
Fish_Whisperer reply :
: the ship that carries the commander of a group of ships
: the best, largest, or most important one of a group of things (such as products, stores, etc.)
TorqueConverter reply :
On 6/28/2014 at 1:47 PM, Fish_Whisperer said:
flag·ship noun ˈflag-ˌship: the ship that carries the commander of a group of ships
: the best, largest, or most important one of a group of things (such as products, stores, etc.)
Full Definition of FLAGSHIP1: the ship that carries the commander of a fleet or subdivision of a fleet and flies the commander's flag2: the finest, largest, or most important one of a series, network, or chain <the company's flagship store>
Everybody is going to draw their own meaning from that definition, but what I take home from it is importance. It's one thing to be the most expensive or most prestigious but the most important is the clincher for me when naming something a flagship. For example BPS may have more prestigious reels than the Pro Qualifier but it is their flagship, IMO, because of the importance of the reel. It's a back to back volume seller, a sale leader at the $99 price point and what could be, if they played their cards correctly, which they don't, a bridge into higher end BPS reels to establish a following.
Admittedly you can replace the words "flagship" with "workhorse" and the argument is unchanged.
This thread is dumb and so am I for postan in it.
John G reply :
Shimano has named their Flagship reel and it's not Curado.
From the Shimano Website....
Antares
Delivering Ultimate Long Distance Casting Performance
The flagship in Shimano's low-profile baitcasting reel line-up, the Antares reels - offered in two gear ratios for multiple freshwater fishing techniques features the ultimate in long distance casting performance. With Shimano's innovative Micro Module Gear System, plus a
lightweight Magnesium frame, it's built to be fished hard.
iabass8 reply :
Im not sure if you're a troll or actually as dense as you come off.. Either way...On 6/28/2014 at 1:23 PM, LMB KING said:LOL i never even heard of those reels. Maybe their not as popular as curado, so their is no way that those are shimanos flagship. Flagship also has to be the best selling reels to become a flagship, If it does not sell, then its not a flagship, I dont think the average consumer will pay $600 for a reel. LOL some of you guys here are funny and are very denial. We all understand that you love shimano so much that thats the only reel you'll probably buy.
http://bit.ly/1pAy3OP}
I also fish more daiwa than shimano
MCS reply :
On 6/28/2014 at 12:28 PM, TNBassin said:Quantum's flagship reel is the EXO or the KVD reel?
Tour MG
MCS reply :
On 6/28/2014 at 1:31 PM, Jon G said:I always love to try new reels and rods from different companies but when I drop $160+ on a reel I want to know that it is solid and there wont be any issues. So inorder to make sure im making a good investment I check the reviews. Generally i will not buy a rod or reel unless there are 75% or higher positive reviews. So when I look at Quantum reels and see tons and tons of negative reviews I just dont feel safe buying one. But now im really considering biting the bullet and try one
I hear you and here is my suggestion. If you buy a quantum buy I higher end in the price range you suggested or above. I am very hesitant when I hear some of these guys complaining they aren't as good as their shimano they are picking up a 60 or 90 reel and comparing to a curado or core when they should be comparing to a caen or citica. How many of these guys endorse low end shimano or daiwa? When some one wants a beginner casting reel neither of them are mentioned in that class.
MCS reply :
I was hoping A-jay would chime in. lol I don't wanna call people out but their is another guy who's product you all are very fond of that uses a new energy on his flipping rod. Dunno if he still does. But point is quantum's are decent enough to get fish in the boat.
MCS reply :
As far as ads go I don't watch tv I read a couple of magazines and feel the big four each have a half page or page ad in each mag.
bigbill reply :
I started off using the walmart bubbles pack quantum spinning reels about 15 years ago when we started bass fishing. My quantum reel on my shakespear black beauty spinning rod caught my PB of 10#. My rod didn't hold up so well catching snapping turtles the size of 235-15 car tires. This setup using excaliber silver thread line 8lb test did beach them. I never wore out the quantum reels. I purchased the complete set in all the sizes and still have them today.
There's one snapping Turtle that's 4' in diameter I haven't tangled with it yet.
My QUANTUM STORY,
I purchase a lot of slightly outdated brand new fishing equipment from a clearing house. I purchased a Bill Dance bait casting reel thinking I would use it a little then retire it to my collection of old equipment. The inners of the friction knob was missing. I contacted quantum. The gal there says it's discontinued but she cross referenced the part numbers to a newer reel. She sent me a bag of the parts I needed. I fixed the new reel.
My point is there service is awesome and you don't find too many people in a service department who know there products.
I still use quantum reels and rods.
A-Jay reply :
On 6/28/2014 at 9:42 PM, MCS said:I was hoping A-jay would chime in. lol I don't wanna call people out but their is another guy who's product you all are very fond of that uses a new energy on his flipping rod. Dunno if he still does. But point is quantum's are decent enough to get fish in the boat.
I did ~ Twice.
And after re-reading them, they add very little value. Much like most of these kind of threads.
A-Jay
http://www.bassresource.com/bass-fishing-forums/topic/140288-why-isnt-quantum-more-popular/?p=1560914
http://www.bassresource.com/bass-fishing-forums/topic/140288-why-isnt-quantum-more-popular/?p=1560923
MCS reply :
On 6/28/2014 at 11:25 PM, A-Jay said:I did ~ Twice.
And after re-reading them, they add very little value. Much like most of these kind of threads.
A-Jay
http://www.bassresource.com/bass-fishing-forums/topic/140288-why-isnt-quantum-more-popular/?p=1560914
http://www.bassresource.com/bass-fishing-forums/topic/140288-why-isnt-quantum-more-popular/?p=1560923
I agree. I probably shoulda kept walking. But I try to keep it a civil discussion. I hope
SirSnookalot reply :
I don't know much about b/c, but I do know spinning gear and catching med sized fish. Most of my fish caught are up to 50#, I don't target 5 pounders, I do catch them, lol. I have caught those fish on just about every brand one can think of. I do have some favorites, Quantum cabo being one of them, but that doesn't negate the effectiveness of the other reels I use. Each one of them is smooth on retrieve, the drags can be set precisely and are more than sufficient to handle a fish on the line 10-15 or even 30 minutes. What else a reel is supposed to do is a question I can't answer. Some reels to be repaired more than others, doesn't make them a bad reel, all of them are going to go down at some time. All that matters to me is the fish.
I bass fish as well and catch my share of them upwards of 8-9#, I'm in Florida we are supposed to catch them like that. I gotta say the average is probably no more than pound, I ain't gonna rack my brain over a 1 pound fish or one that takes about 20 seconds to land. Don't like a Quantum, don't use it there are plenty of other choices
Goose52 reply :
On 6/28/2014 at 11:28 AM, A-Jay said:All caught on this Quantum KVD Reel.
Seems to work OK for me.
A-Jay
:thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Like I said on another post a while back....I'm MUCH more interested in what's on the wet end of the line...than what's on the dry end of the line... 
Smallmouth Hunter reply :
I am going to get hate for this, but I believe it is the truth. Quantum advertises way more than any other reel company out there in the US, and they have all their pro staff push the products. Like Gary Klein who says his quantum smoke is what allows him to catch fish even though it is so loud you can hear it over him speaking during MLF.On 6/28/2014 at 11:00 AM, LMB KING said:I also believe that their lack of product advertisement is hurting the company. They don't advertise as much as shimano and abu. In this competitive sport, they need to step their game up because people are the back bone of the company, and right now it seems like the shimano brand is winning that competition.
Shimano and daiwa sponsor few pros compare to quantum and even lews. Their reels speak for themselves I guess...
Catch and Grease reply :
Doesn't bill dance use quantum? Just wondering
Tywithay reply :
Quantum is the second most widely advertised brand on the market, behind Berkley. Any lack of popularity is due to quality, looks, performance, or some combination.
thehooligan reply :
I've bought one quantum my whole life. Was a Boca for surf fishing and I actually really liked it. The Boca & cabo are great saltwater reels.
When it comes to baitcasters, all the other major companies offer such better reels at a better value. Its a no brainer...
Maxximus Redneckus reply :
Im a diehard abu fan i own 60+ i also own shimano daiwia quatum bps rapala reels .i never had any pribs with anything i own.and use them all saltwater and fresh. As long as we know how to tie a great knot .thats all that matters .enough said
Capt.Bob reply :
in over 50 years I caught plenty of fish on this outfit to, it holds line, Cast's lures, reels in fish, and I still take out a couple times a year. It's a ball but I have to say, most days I prefer a little more refined gear to do the same job!
I think we all realize just because a reel catches fish,,,,that doesn't mean that's all we want, it may be all you need, but most want the best bang for whatever price range they are wanting to stay within. I personally think in my price range there are better reels and rods out there.
PS last week I was using that old Shakespeare and had 1/2 the knob crumble off the handle, it's the first part that has broke since 1962, and I am having trouble finding parts?????? HHHMM,,,,,,,any help?
Josh Smith reply :
On 6/29/2014 at 8:53 AM, Capt.Bob said:in over 50 years I caught plenty of fish on this outfit to, it holds line, Cast's lures, reels in fish, and I still take out a couple times a year. It's a ball but I have to say, most days I prefer a little more refined gear to do the same job!
I think we all realize just because a reel catches fish,,,,that doesn't mean that's all we want, it may be all you need, but most want the best bang for whatever price range they are wanting to stay within. I personally think in my price range there are better reels and rods out there.
PS last week I was using that old Shakespeare and had 1/2 the knob crumble off the handle, it's the first part that has broke since 1962, and I am having trouble finding parts?????? HHHMM,,,,,,,any help?
Do you have a picture of the knob and reel handle?
Josh
aavery2 reply :
Just get on the popular auction site and search wonder spin, you can pick some up for about 10 dollars, just get one with a good handle.
Capt.Bob reply :
I may have to I have only talked to 3 of the folks I get old parts from and they are thinking I may have to do the same thing, this is one of the three outfits my Dad gave me in his lifetime, I like to use it now and then in local ponds,,,,just for memories!!
FishTank reply :
My two cents....
I have owned 2 Quantum PT Tour Edition Baitcasters, 1 Energy PT Baitcaster and 1 Energy Spinning Reel. Short version, I wasted my time and my money. They may have improved since my purchase but these lasted maybe 3 or 4 months and I am not that hard on my gear. I sent all them back to be repaired and they still did not work well except for the Energy Spinning reel. It worked for awhile and the following year the bail wire broke. They all either ended up on ebay or in the trash. I then told myself that I would not purchase a Quantum reel again. On a side note, I do recall Quantum's service was top notch. They knew what was wrong, worked on the reels, kept me informed of what was going on and sent them back to me quickly. Unfortunately, they never got them working properly.
I blame the hot sauce.....
frantzracing0 reply :
I have only thrown one quantum. A smoke in a 7 gear ratio. I thought it was a quality reel in the limited time I used it. Smooth, quiet, cast distance seemed up to par. I had zero gripes with it.
That said, when im looking for a new reel I never even think to look quantum. Why? I have no idea.
ColdSVT reply :
I bought a ptxm baitcaster in 2004...i used it once and rhe bearings screemed like a banshe. Sent it back and they fixed it...lasted six casts and screamed again...sent it back and they fixed it and that time it lasted three casts and one short flip...sent it back and they "fixed" it again. Then i went on deployment
Got home and took it out and the second cast yep tou guessed it...screamed like hell again. I then removed it from the rod and chucked it into lake wallenpaupak. Its about 200yds rigjt of the boat launch if anyone wants it
Shame too i used my buddies ptxm and i loved it so i bought one and got a pos
Kinda burned me on quantum since they refused to give me a new one
SirSnookalot reply :
Am I influenced from some one else using a reel and rod, yes but not from TV. A good chance on TV that reel is brand new and if there were a problem it would probably be edited out. I have seen and casted Quantum smoke sl pts spinning reels, I liked them. I do own 2 cabos and a boca, don't have a negative word about them, but who knows what I'm going to like next time I buy, glad to say I don't need a thing.
ColdSVT reply :
^ i battled many tarpon, monster jacks, and a some 30+lb permit on a boca and have no complaints..i sold that reel along with most of my salt gear whwn i left FL
Ratherbfishing reply :
On 6/28/2014 at 12:10 PM, aavery2 said:while Zebco has a long storied past in American fishing, I think most of us think back to the model 202 and 33 when we hear the name. Unfortunately spincast reels are most often associated with entry level beginner type equipment. I think the association from Zebco to Quantum has hurt Quantum some. Also I think they have too many products, many of them are lower end equipment and frankly a lot of them are lower quality. I wish they would just pick 7-8 models and really develop them instead of working of 17 -20 models. Quantum also hurt themselves some several years back with reels that had poor quality control, the finishes on the reels were very bad.
Every major brand has reels in their lineup that are great, Shimano has the Curado, Daiwa has the Zillion, Abu has the Premier, etc. etc. Quantum needs to establish a reel in their lineup that has the same known consistency for quality.
Not bad reels, bad marketing in my opinion.
What he said.
I've very little actual experience with using Quantum reels so I can't speak on this. However, being owned by Zebco, (famous for their "starter reels"), Quantum has an image problem. Whether it's a valid argument or not, many fishermen have the mind set of "I want to graduate up, not move down."
LMB KING reply :
On 7/2/2014 at 3:36 AM, Ratherbfishing said:What he said.
I've very little actual experience with using Quantum reels so I can't speak on this. However, being owned by Zebco, (famous for their "starter reels"), Quantum has an image problem. Whether it's a valid argument or not, many fishermen have the mind set of "I want to graduate up, not move down."
Van Staal is probably the best spinning reel in the world and its own by zebco. Just saying. Do your research before talking nonsense like everyone else.
Ratherbfishing reply :
On 6/28/2014 at 9:41 AM, LMB KING said:I have a feeling you did this to start an argument.
An argument begins when one person can't respect another's opinion. Calling my opinion (and others), "nonsense" falls under this, I think.
iabass8 reply :
On 7/2/2014 at 3:49 AM, LMB KING said:Van Staal is probably the best spinning reel in the world and its own by zebco. Just saying. Do your research before talking nonsense like everyone else.
Research what exactly? A biased opinion? There's no such thing as "the best spinning reel in the world."
LMB KING reply :
On 7/2/2014 at 3:57 AM, Ratherbfishing said:An argument begins when one person can't respect another's opinion. Calling my opinion (and others), "nonsense" falls under this, I think.
I respect everyones opinion (AS LONG IF ITS VALID) you saying that zebco is a starter reel and have a mindset of graduate not downgrade, Is again and understatement. Van Staal spinning reel are probably the best in the world and their owned by zebco.
A-Jay reply :
Ratherbfishing reply :
On 7/2/2014 at 4:12 AM, LMB KING said:I respect everyones opinion (AS LONG IF ITS VALID) you saying that zebco is a starter reel and have a mindset of graduate not downgrade, Is again and understatement. Van Staal spinning reel are probably the best in the world and their owned by zebco.
End of discussion as far as I'm concerned.
LMB KING reply :
On 7/2/2014 at 4:11 AM, iabass8 said:Research what exactly? A biased opinion? There's no such thing as "the best spinning reel in the world."
If you do your research like you supposed to. You'll find out that van staal was invented because people in the northeast used every tackle that exist and they all broke and failed, so they built a spinning reel that is extremely bulletproof and maintenance free. It is labeled as the best spinning reel on planet earth.
iabass8 reply :
On 7/2/2014 at 4:19 AM, LMB KING said:If you do your research like you supposed to. You'll find out that van staal was invented because people in the northeast used every tackle that exist and they all broke and failed, so they built a spinning reel that is extremely bulletproof and maintenance free. It is labeled as the best spinning reel on planet earth.
So that MUST mean it's true...
Alonerankin2 reply :
A-Jay is that a image of the Infamous Irene?
Lol!!! I think the lights are growing Dim....
Kevin22 reply :
On 6/28/2014 at 11:22 AM, iabass8 said:I absolutely cannot stand listening to Gary Klien proclaim that he couldn't have caught this fish without this amazing Quantum rod and reel. It's just so lightweight and sensitive I swear the guy says it after every fish he catches. It's almost as if he interrupts himself just to say that and then gets back on track.
Same thing with Shaw. Just plain annoying.
Alonerankin2 reply :
I wish I could afford a Van Staal..... Nice....
LMB KING reply :
On 7/2/2014 at 4:29 AM, iabass8 said:So that MUST mean it's true...
i also have one myself. 
iabass8 reply :
On 7/2/2014 at 4:41 AM, LMB KING said:i also have one myself.
I had a turkey sandwich for lunch.
BadBassWV reply :
Just curious do you like Mustard or Mayonaise on your turkey.
Alonerankin2 reply :
Oh I love me some oven baked turkey slices
Mayo, coarse ground pepper on honey wheat yummy, well time to eat!
IAY reply :
I had some really good sliders and onion straws from Match Box 
. Really glad we all had enjoyable lunches.
iabass8 reply :
On 7/2/2014 at 4:47 AM, BadBassWV said:Just curious do you like Mustard or Mayonaise on your turkey.
I'm more of a mustard guy. Mustard is clearly the best because I said so.
Alonerankin2 reply :
Yummmy sliders........
LMB KING reply :
THE LEVEL OF IGNORANCE HERE IS VERY HIGH.
MCS reply :
On 7/2/2014 at 4:32 AM, Alonerankin2 said:A-Jay is that a image of the Infamous Irene?
Lol!!! I think the lights are growing Dim....
No it's shee-man-O's new logo 
lol
Alonerankin2 reply :
What? Mustard over mayo... No way man
Capt.Bob reply :
On 7/2/2014 at 4:47 AM, BadBassWV said:Just curious do you like Mustard or Mayonaise on your turkey.
Everybody knows you don't put mustard on Turkey,,,,,,,but that depends on which Turkey,,,,,how did Turkey and Quantum all get brought up in the same thread,,,,,, I'm done here,,, 
iabass8 reply :
On 7/2/2014 at 5:07 AM, Alonerankin2 said:What? Mustard over mayo... No way man
I know...it's blasphemy. Sometimes I just get on a turkey + mustard kick. I eat a lot of subway traveling all over the state and always order the turkey/cheese/mayo. I've once ordered mustard in public and thought I was about to get tossed outside. I only do it at home now. The looks you get just pierce right through you.
MCS reply :
On 7/2/2014 at 5:19 AM, iabass8 said:I know...it's blasphemy. Sometimes I just get on a turkey + mustard kick. I eat a lot of subway traveling all over the state and always order the turkey/cheese/mayo. I've once ordered mustard in public and thought I was about to get tossed outside. I only do it at home now. The looks you get just pierce right through you.
Now u know how it feels when you post u use a quantum on this board lol
MCS reply :
On 7/2/2014 at 5:07 AM, Capt.Bob said:Everybody knows you don't put mustard on Turkey,,,,,,,but that depends on which Turkey,,,,,how did Turkey and Quantum all get brought up in the same thread,,,,,, I'm done here,,,
Good idea meet too see you later
Alonerankin2 reply :
Lol.. That's about the same as me using a PG carrot stix on my boat.... Man those guys wanna lynch me... It's a good rod... But man lotta haters around!
Smallmouth Hunter reply :
Cool story bro.On 7/2/2014 at 4:12 AM, LMB KING said:I respect everyones opinion (AS LONG IF ITS VALID) you saying that zebco is a starter reel and have a mindset of graduate not downgrade, Is again and understatement. Van Staal spinning reel are probably the best in the world and their owned by zebco.
JGBassinAL reply :
I love mustard on turkey, didn't know that was weird...
iabass8 reply :
On 7/2/2014 at 5:40 AM, JGBassinAL said:I love mustard on turkey, didn't know that was weird...
BadBassWV reply :
Ignorance is just another word for not knowing. IMO Mustard is best on turkey. It got me thinking what other people use.
Catch and Grease reply :
Turkey plus pepper = all you need
Tywithay reply :
Real men just eat ham.
Alonerankin2 reply :
No, ham alright but Iam talking Vienna sausages,
It's got all kinda meat in it!! Lol!!!
iabass8 reply :
On 7/2/2014 at 6:25 AM, Tywithay said:Real men just eat ham.
dam0007 reply :
Own a few quantum products, no problems here. Although their cheaper stuff uses right handed contoured knobs on lefty reels where as Shimano does both left and right contoured. Daiwa lews are ambidextrous (flat or round). Okuma is guilty too.... About 7 guys in my club only use quantum, a few friends in other clubs as we'll. general consensus is their higher end stuff is awesome.
SirSnookalot reply :
On 7/2/2014 at 3:49 AM, LMB KING said:Van Staal is probably the best spinning reel in the world and its own by zebco. Just saying. Do your research before talking nonsense like everyone else.
So is Fin Nor.
I'm not real crazy for Van Staal, IMO it's a heavy reel and far from the smoothest one I have had, especially by freshwater standards. The strong suit is line capacity and the fact that sand can't get into it, making it very popular among Northeast surf casters.
For my uses both Fin Nor and Quantum are better options at a more reasonable price.
bootytrain reply :
On 7/2/2014 at 3:49 AM, LMB KING said:Van Staal is probably the best spinning reel in the world and its own by zebco. Just saying. Do your research before talking nonsense like everyone else.
Ford used to own Aston Martin, Audi owns Lamborghini, Fiat owns Ferrari... so whats your point? Just because Zebco BOUGHT Van Staal doesn't mean that a Quantum reel is as well made as a Van Staal just because Zebco owns Quantum too. Try again.
SirSnookalot reply :
On 7/2/2014 at 2:03 PM, bootytrain said:Ford used to own Aston Martin, Audi owns Lamborghini, Fiat owns Ferrari... so whats your point? Just because Zebco BOUGHT Van Staal doesn't mean that a Quantum reel is as well made as a Van Staal just because Zebco owns Quantum too. Try again.
Prior to FMC buying Jaguar the cars had a reputation of being constantly in service, if it rained just leave it in the garage, lol. Once FMC bought them that all changed, went from an unreliable car to one the more reliable ones. I think Jag is now owned by an Indian company. I do believe the parent company often makes a difference on the product, both good and bad.
bootytrain reply :
On 7/2/2014 at 2:39 PM, SirSnookalot said:Prior to FMC buying Jaguar the cars had a reputation of being constantly in service, if it rained just leave it in the garage, lol. Once FMC bought them that all changed, went from an unreliable car to one the more reliable ones. I think Jag is now owned by an Indian company. I do believe the parent company often makes a difference on the product, both good and bad.
That's why I said "used to own" lol.
aavery2 reply :
On 7/2/2014 at 3:49 AM, LMB KING said:Van Staal is probably the best spinning reel in the world and its own by zebco. Just saying. Do your research before talking nonsense like everyone else.
So when you hear someone say I'm buying a Zebco, do you think they are talking about a Zan Staal, my bet is most of America thinks Zebco 33. Truthfully I had no idea that they even owned the company, which only support my other statement. Not bad reels, just poor marketing.
Ern reply :
On 7/2/2014 at 3:49 AM, LMB KING said:Van Staal is probably the best spinning reel in the world and its own by zebco. Just saying..
Zebco, Van Staal, Quantum, Martin, Fin Nor, Martin, and Rhino are all BRANDS owned by W.C. Bradley Co. Original Van Staals were legendary. Opinions differ now. And best in the World is relative to what it needs to do. Google ZeeBaas reels if you want a top of the line, take it for a swim surf reel. Then come tell me about the Van Staal. There are several best in the worlds relative to what you want a reel to do. I'd love an Exist 1003 or a Cardiff 2000HGS for trout fishing. Wouldn't use either in the surf. Do your research before talking nonsense like everyone else.
Ern reply :
Back to subject. Quantum reels have CQ issues that have plagued them for years. I have had an original QMD (made in Japan) since 1985'ish. I have my grand fathers old 33 (made in the USA). Both reels are in great shape. I just greased both yesterday as matter of fact. I could spool either and use it today without problem. I wish I still had my old 1310's or my Prolite. But I am glad to be rid of the QSS's, the Snapshots, the Hypercast, Micro, XtraLites, and Energy reels. One EM7-1 cost me a huge brown trout I still have nightmares about. Quantum's biggest problem is bean counters cutting counters. I would believe that an engineer worth anything can make a great reel. Cutting corners to a point to where it makes the accountants happy with the result is the trick.
I tuned an Extralite trigger spin, XTT00 last night. Required removing a ton of grease, turning down the gear shaft (how the bearing went on is as amazing as how it came off) and polishing the gear, degreasing everything, polishing the drag plate, de-burring the Teflon drag washer, and removing drive gear shims. I need to call Quantum to get a bearing for the left side as the three bearings are two pinion bearing and a right side drive. Had a place for the 4th bearing on the left side plate. I guess the accountant said "no". As was the case with the polishing of the gear I did. But after reworking this reel it is awesome! What I will have when I get the other main bearing is a 4 bearing Ultra light trigger spin with a 5.4:1 gear ratio and a smooth fade free drag. I think it will do well as my grand daughters first reel. Minus getting a bearing, I have $2 in the reel at this point.
Look at how many Cardinals are still in use. Even my QMD. Old Mitchells that still work. Then look at how many of the new reels have failed. I have learned to look at a reel's schematics and then have the reel in hand to see if it has the features I want. I own a full set of the Shimano Symetre FJ's. 500, 1000, 2-2500's and a 4000. But I wont be buying a Symetre FL. I own Curado E-series reels. I won't buy a G-series.
At one time If I could get a couple months out of any reel I was happy. I have killed ABU, Daiwa, Shimano , Lew's(original), and Quantum. if I used it, it died. One of my Symetre 2500's is on its 5th year, maybe. Cleaned it yesterday, too. I have had it to the beach surf fishing, Disney on a plane, tailrace trout and pond bass fishing, Carp fishing, and wading for smallies. It has seen some use. Only wear on it is the spool labeling is faded and has a scuff on the lip and the little plastic thingy in the handle has gone MIA. I'd imagine it could be found in the tailrace area I fish. I had to polish the oscillating slider, too. Other than that. Clean, lube, and fish.
Any reel can have flaws. But from my dealing with Quantum, I have found consistent QC issue and lack of customer support (a whole other issue I have had with Quantum) to make me spend my money on other product.
MCS reply :
On 7/2/2014 at 2:39 PM, SirSnookalot said:Prior to FMC buying Jaguar the cars had a reputation of being constantly in service, if it rained just leave it in the garage, lol. Once FMC bought them that all changed, went from an unreliable car to one the more reliable ones. I think Jag is now owned by an Indian company. I do believe the parent company often makes a difference on the product, both good and bad.
And Audi has heavily influenced Lambo design. Suspension and breaking systems greatly improved.
LMB KING reply :
On 7/2/2014 at 1:40 PM, SirSnookalot said:So is Fin Nor.
I'm not real crazy for Van Staal, IMO it's a heavy reel and far from the smoothest one I have had, especially by freshwater standards. The strong suit is line capacity and the fact that sand can't get into it, making it very popular among Northeast surf casters.
For my uses both Fin Nor and Quantum are better options at a more reasonable price.
Yes. I buy Zebco brands. Fin-Nor used to be the pinnacle of saltwater back since the 30s to 80s. They also invented to first real offshore reel.
TorqueConverter reply :
On 7/2/2014 at 9:13 PM, MCS said:And Audi has heavily influenced Lambo design. Suspension and breaking systems greatly improved.
Wouldn't that be VW? I thought Audis were just VWs with the Olympics' symbol on the front.
J Francho reply :
There's been a few decent Quantuns. I still have an IR3 that works like a champ. The old gold Accurist with the flipping switch was a good reel. I have a parts scrap yard of around 150 reels. The majority are Abu round reels and Quantum low pros. There are a few Daiwas, mostly from the 80s and 90s. Not one single Shimano is in there. No Zebcos either, for what that's worth.
Jrob78 reply :
On 7/3/2014 at 12:06 PM, J Francho said:There's been a few decent Quantuns.
That's a ringing endorsement if I've ever heard one. 
MCS reply :
On 7/3/2014 at 10:51 AM, TorqueConverter said:Wouldn't that be VW? I thought Audis were just VWs with the Olympics' symbol on the front.
VW Audi Group is the company that owns Porsche and Lamborghini. They also own Bentley, skoda and a few more manufacturers.
VW and Porsche were both started by the same guy think the rest were aquired. Audis depending on model share technologies with either a Porsche (A8 & Panamera) or VW (A3 and Golf)
J Francho reply :
Honestly, they haven't come out with anything that turns my screws. I think the last reel I was really psyched to get was a Daiwa Sol. Small, light, simple, well made. The more I use my Pinnacle, the more I like it. Another Quantum reel that was nice, but pricey, was the blue Tour PT. Worked on quite a few of those, and they were well made. Not sure why they get a bad rap. They're budget reels aren't the best value, but really, no one's are unless you pony up at least $120. Okuma, Pinnacle, Flooger, Browning, get no air play, but have done decent products as well.
I will say this, some of the touted Shimanos are almost over built. They're really well constructed, and you pay a premium for that. They've been doing it like that for a long time. People respect that track record. They didn't used to be so hot. Somewhere in the early 90s, they came out with some great stuff. I tried a few, and actually took them back. Kept the old Stradic, though, lol.
Most of my reels today are 4-6 year old Daiwas, and a few Pinnacle, Shimano, and Okuma. Mostly sub $250 reels.
Save your money, and get into that $150 to $200 bracket. No matter the brand, there are sweet reels in every make there.
J Francho reply :
I took a Skoda for a test drive, but the Czech engine light kept coming on. Lol.
MCS reply :
On 7/3/2014 at 7:54 PM, J Francho said:Honestly, they haven't come out with anything that turns my screws. I think the last reel I was really psyched to get was a Daiwa Sol. Small, light, simple, well made. The more I use my Pinnacle, the more I like it. Another Quantum reel that was nice, but pricey, was the blue Tour PT. Worked on quite a few of those, and they were well made. Not sure why they get a bad rap. They're budget reels aren't the best value, but really, no one's are unless you pony up at least $120. Okuma, Pinnacle, Flooger, Browning, get no air play, but have done decent products as well.
I will say this, some of the touted Shimanos are almost over built. They're really well constructed, and you pay a premium for that. They've been doing it like that for a long time. People respect that track record. They didn't used to be so hot. Somewhere in the early 90s, they came out with some great stuff. I tried a few, and actually took them back. Kept the old Stradic, though, lol.
Most of my reels today are 4-6 year old Daiwas, and a few Pinnacle, Shimano, and Okuma. Mostly sub $250 reels.
Save your money, and get into that $150 to $200 bracket. No matter the brand, there are sweet reels in every make there.
The blue tour were good, so were the chameleon schemed energy. That was about the time the gold accurist you spoke of came out. I have a following energy model that is pretty solid so far it is very similar to the smoke. I agree there cheap stuff is garbage. gotta keep it about $150. I also agree that a good reel price point for any brand is around 200.
Have you seen or fished the new Quantum Tour MG? Just wondering if you had thoughts on this... magnesium under $300.
Capt.Bob reply :
On 7/2/2014 at 1:40 PM, SirSnookalot said:So is Fin Nor.
I'm not real crazy for Van Staal, IMO it's a heavy reel and far from the smoothest one I have had, especially by freshwater standards. The strong suit is line capacity and the fact that sand can't get into it, making it very popular among Northeast surf casters.
For my uses both Fin Nor and Quantum are better options at a more reasonable price.
You are absoluetly correct Snookers, and absoluetly none of those reels have a thing to do with Quantum Bass reels and there popularity, just more useless examples grasping for something to gain popularity.
On 7/2/2014 at 4:43 PM, aavery2 said:So when you hear someone say I'm buying a Zebco, do you think they are talking about a Zan Stahl, my bet is most of America thinks Zebco 33. Truthfully I had no idea that they even owned the company, which only support my other statement. Not bad reels, just poor marketing.
your right aavery2, I knew this all along and probably why most shy away, Zebco is great at what it is made for, but with the retrieve speeds and drag potential, face it there are definitely better choices for bass and sportfishing than Zebco and why their not looked at when most go reel shopping for most sportfishing reels,,, I absolutely think when someone says there buying a Quantum the majority of people are thinking why?? not Van Staal!! Like I said above, Zebco does better at what it is designed to do, and van staal at what it does, but neither one one would be great for throwing and retrieving Bass lures all day, and believe me Bass fishing is what a reel has to do great today to get popular, if it isn't a good bass reel it, it isn't going to gain the popularity that name brand reels get that are great bass reels. I mainly Walleye fish, but top end bass gear is the best choice for my kind of equipment needs, even for Browns and Steelhead. When I am Perch or small Trout fishing I use finess Bass reels, This Van Stahl, Finn Nor, talk I doubt has ever come into any thought when one is looking for new Bass gear, and totally absent from there minds.
On 7/2/2014 at 11:01 PM, LMB KING said:Yes. I buy Zebco brands. Fin-Nor used to be the pinnacle of saltwater back since the 30s to 80s. They also invented to first real offshore reel.
You can buy Zebco's and talk about "has been" offshore reel's all you want, but I will put money on the fact that aint nobody lining up to trade their Shimano's, Diawa's, Lew's, Abu's or even Quantums for Zebco Fin Nor or Van Stahl, to go bass fishing,,,, more grasping to make their lack of popularity issues relavant, and it ain't happening. I wont even ask why so many quantums are in all reel techs junk pile, not just JFranhco's pile,,,,,,,,? 
lmbfisherman reply :
I had a Quantum Energy PT, very solid and smooth reel. I got rid of it last year, the main issue I don't buy Quantum reels is because I couldn't palm it as easily as the reels I own. That hump is just too much for me. Otherwise I'd probably would've owned more.
I was going to pull the trigger on a Smoke rod one time, but the guy in the shop said it has breakage issues. Lots of returns and he was selling them out to not carry them any longer. So I didn't.
J Francho reply :
MCS, I haven't even held the Tour MG. They seem a little late to the low mass party. There many reels in the sub 6 oz. range that use an Al frame - I'd be looking hard at those models over an Mg frame. That chameleon finish reel was well made, but the finish corroded if you looked at it wrong. It's a weird hit or miss thing, too. You either got a good one or a bad one. Many that have more than one have both.
TorqueConverter reply :
I never understood why anyone would balk at a Korean reel, made in China branded as a Quantum and then praise another Korean reel made in China branded as [your reel name here].
J Francho reply :
To what models do you refer?
SirSnookalot reply :
I do believe Bigbil has mentioned several times he uses FIn Nor inshore spinning reels for his bass fishing, seems to be quite content with them. Not that I think I need a saltwater spinning reel for bass but if it performs well in the salt, there is no reason not to use it in fresh. I can be as narrow minded as the next person when it comes to using what brand of reel for what kind of fish, boat or shore. I don't give a hoot about any technical aspects, or what country the reel is made in, only the fish matters. I just can't remember any reel I have had problems with or needed customer service for my bass fishing
SenkoGuru reply :
On 7/4/2014 at 12:43 AM, lmbfisherman said:I had a Quantum Energy PT, very solid and smooth reel. I got rid of it last year, the main issue I don't buy Quantum reels is because I couldn't palm it as easily as the reels I own. That hump is just too much for me. Otherwise I'd probably would've owned more.
I was going to pull the trigger on a Smoke rod one time, but the guy in the shop said it has breakage issues. Lots of returns and he was selling them out to not carry them any longer. So I didn't.
I am not a Quantum fan but I do have a 7'0" MH Quantum Smoke Rod that I've had for over 2 years. I've boat flipped 4# bass with it and I've yet to have any trouble with it. I bought it because of a sale. For $75.00 I figured I would try it out. It isn't that bad of a rod, light and pretty sensitive too. It isn't a White Ice by no means but few rods are......
AK-Jax86 reply :
I have had Pflueger Reels (President & Patriarch - both spinning) Abu Garcia (Orra SX - spinning, Orra SX, Silver Max, Revo SX, Revo STX - baitcast) and Quantum (Smoke pt25, Smoke pt30 - spinning, Smoke Inshore - baitcast).
Out of all the reels the Smoke Spinning and the Smoke inshore are ALWAYS carried with me I love them. I have no brand loyalty I just go with what I like and those 3 companies do it for me... But my Smokes are in the lead
pbizzle reply :
On 7/4/2014 at 2:38 AM, J Francho said:MCS, I haven't even held the Tour MG. They seem a little late to the low mass party. There many reels in the sub 6 oz. range that use an Al frame - I'd be looking hard at those models over an Mg frame. That chameleon finish reel was well made, but the finish corroded if you looked at it wrong. It's a weird hit or miss thing, too. You either got a good one or a bad one. Many that have more than one have both.
Just adding to your point about the sub 6 oz. aluminum framed reels, even Academy managed to make the H2O Xpress Mystic at 5.8 oz. with an aluminum frame and price it at $130. While they aren't at the same performance level as many other reels of the weight, if they perform half as well as the Mettle's they' have to be a good reel. I imagine if you upgraded the drag washers and spool bearings, it would outcompete MANY reels in the $200 price range.
jamesholton reply :
i think it might be because quantum doesnt really make a high end "enthusiast" reel. do they make a good quality product? yeah, sure they do. but nothing comparable to say, a steez, calais, tweaked millionaires, conquest, etc. Don't even get me started on megabass reels! LOL
i'm sure kvd's name does sell some reels, and he IS the jordan of bass fishing without a doubt. if he ever switched to daiwa or shimano....game over lol.
Maxximus Redneckus reply :
The diff in kvd and megabass is a few million bucks on a personal scale.truth is i love fishing and any reels,rods,lines,lures,boats that involve fishing.i collect abu round reels.but ill use w - e to catch fish.
JGBassinAL reply :
On 7/20/2014 at 12:09 PM, Maxximus Redneckus said:The diff in kvd and megabass is a few million bucks on a personal scale.truth is i love fishing and any reels,rods,lines,lures,boats that involve fishing.i collect abu round reels.but ill use w - e to catch fish.
Difference in KVD/Quantum and Megabass? Please don't every put Quantum and Megabass in the same sentence ever again.
gulfcaptain reply :
have 2 Kinetics, 2 Accurists, 2 Codes, and 1 EXO, fish them all. Also have a couple Diawa's, 1 Shimano Cardiff 300(for swimbaits), and 6 BPS reels(carbonlite and older extremes), and 1 H20 reel. I find myself aways fishing my Quantums other then the Codes which I have retired after a few seasons and upgrading, and working my way to getting more EXO's. Also have one of there rods (Greg Hackney Hack Attack 7'11"), which I love. Never had any problems with any of my Quantums. But I do love to read the reviews of everyone who imediately bashes ALL Quantum products and states to get a Lew's or Shimano. Don't believe they have ever even fished a Quantum, just upset because the Quantum Pro's seem to always be in the spotlight and really like the equipment they fish with. Even Zona being a Shimano guy doesn't fish Shimano rods, he fishes Loomis although now they seem to be one in the same.
Delaware Valley Tackle reply :
On 6/28/2014 at 12:10 PM, aavery2 said:while Zebco has a long storied past in American fishing, I think most of us think back to the model 202 and 33 when we hear the name. Unfortunately spincast reels are most often associated with entry level beginner type equipment. I think the association from Zebco to Quantum has hurt Quantum some. Also I think they have too many products, many of them are lower end equipment and frankly a lot of them are lower quality. I wish they would just pick 7-8 models and really develop them instead of working of 17 -20 models. Quantum also hurt themselves some several years back with reels that had poor quality control, the finishes on the reels were very bad.
Every major brand has reels in their lineup that are great, Shimano has the Curado, Daiwa has the Zillion, Abu has the Premier, etc. etc. Quantum needs to establish a reel in their lineup that has the same known consistency for quality.
Not bad reels, bad marketing in my opinion.
Some good points here. Mechanically, Quantum has some nice design features. I see some QC issues while working on them but during normal use, most owners would probably never notice them. They aren't horrible, but the market is so competitive with so many good reels out there, I refer to Quantum as "The worst of the best". That's not a dig, just where I would rank them even though it's splitting hairs.
FishTank reply :
On 7/21/2014 at 11:15 AM, Delaware Valley Tackle said:Some good points here. Mechanically, Quantum has some nice design features. I see some QC issues while working on them but during normal use, most owners would probably never notice them. They aren't horrible, but the market is so competitive with so many good reels out there, I refer to Quantum as "The worst of the best". That's not a dig, just where I would rank them even though it's splitting hairs.
I am curious as to what Quality Control issues you are talking about. I had a few Quantums, as stated in this thread earlier, that had issues, they went back to Quantum and later developed they same issues. I got about about a year of fishing out of them before I decided to move on to something else (anything that worked). I was always curious as to what exactly was wrong with these reels. For me, they did not cast well, the brakes did not work, they sounded like coffee grinders, and the drag was unreliable.
In all the fishing I have done lately, I have seen no one with one of the Quantum reels I use to have, which includes the Quantum PT Tour Edition, PT Energy spinning reels and the PT Energy baitcaisting reels. I do however see a lot of older Shimanos, Daiwas, Abu Garcias, and few Okumas but no older Quantums.
Delaware Valley Tackle reply :
The gears in the Smoke often grind and replacement has been a short term fix. Fishing them as is won't hurt anything as long as you don't find the less than buttery feel distracting. The finish has been known to blister. The most common issue I alluded to are side plates that fit excessively tight and are a bear to remove and parts that don't line up perfectly making reassembly more difficult than it should be. Like I said, these are things that the average user may never be aware of and don't necessarily affect performance or longevity. I'm splitting hairs.
FSUMF333 reply :
I own a few smokes both 100's & 150's I have never had any of the problems people talk about and I rarely clean or oil/grease them. Some people must just get lemons. I use mine everyday pretty much too.
Slipknot_Fan666 reply :
My Quantum seems to work fine. I haven't had it to long but from what I can tell its a great reel. I think most people just jump on the bandwagon without giving the brand a chance, that's the reason I decided to buy one. If most people bash something I'm most likely going to buy it to see why everyone hates it so bad, and so far, I see no reason the brand should be bashed. Mine is a Accurist PT, the older gold version that a few people have mentioned.
Glenn reply :
People "bash" every brand, every model, every product known to mankind. Somewhere, somebody out there doesn't like "brand X" for whatever reason. There's no escaping it. So take it with a grain of salt.
Slipknot_Fan666 reply :
On 7/22/2014 at 1:58 AM, Glenn said:People "bash" every brand, every model, every product known to mankind. Somewhere, somebody out there doesn't like "brand X" for whatever reason. There's no escaping it. So take it with a grain of salt.
Most of the other brands don't get bashed as bad as Quantum, though.
LMB KING reply :
On 7/22/2014 at 1:58 AM, Glenn said:People "bash" every brand, every model, every product known to mankind. Somewhere, somebody out there doesn't like "brand X" for whatever reason. There's no escaping it. So take it with a grain of salt.
You're right sir, but their is such thing as ignorant people because saying that quantum sucks its like saying that kvd and bill dance sucks. I agree with demonicforrest, some people never tried a quantum in their life or haven't used a quantum in 5 years and they are saying that quantum sucks. I the other hand i used shimano recently and it broke on me plenty of times so i can have a valid input on that brand. Zebco brands are top tier brands with best spinning reel in the world (van staal) also fin-nor which is probably the best saltwater reels that exist and last, quantum which they have patents that no other reel has. So being close minded and ignorant is one thing and actually have a valid input of a previously own quantum.
Glenn reply :
No need to get all bent out of shape over somebody else's opinion but your own. Calling somebody names because you don't agree with their POV doesn't do anyone any good, nor does it compel them to rethink their opinions.
Just be happy the whole world doesn't see it like you do, and drive up demand, availability, and price on your favorite gear.
LMB KING reply :
On 7/22/2014 at 3:04 AM, Glenn said:No need to get all bent out of shape over somebody else's opinion but your own. Calling somebody names because you don't agree with their POV doesn't do anyone any good, nor does it compel them to rethink their opinions.
Just be happy the whole world doesn't see it like you do, and drive up demand, availability, and price on your favorite gear.
Thanks. I like that. Great advise from the great Glenn himself. 
Slipknot_Fan666 reply :
For what it's worth, this is my Quantum.
LMB KING reply :
On 7/22/2014 at 3:51 AM, Demonic Forrest said:For what it's worth, this is my Quantum.
Very nice reel. I have the Energy and for saltwater i have the cabo reel. Very reliable and dependable reels. I love all the zebco brands
LMB KING reply :
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s8lf5o1FaP0
Slipknot_Fan666 reply :
On 7/22/2014 at 4:12 AM, LMB KING said:Very nice reel. I have the Energy and for saltwater i have the cabo reel. Very reliable and dependable reels. I love all the zebco brands
Thanks bud, I'm wanting to save up and get a Smoke but that'll be a while. I may just wait until next year so I can get it for $100.
coak reply :
On 7/22/2014 at 6:38 AM, Demonic Forrest said:Thanks bud, I'm wanting to save up and get a Smoke but that'll be a while. I may just wait until next year so I can get it for $100.
You want a cheaper, solid, reliable Quantum? Get an older Tour Edition--either the older blue one or the chrome finish. Both can be had for $100 or less and in my humble opinion are a great reel for the dough! A real workhorse of the Quantum reel lineup.
Slipknot_Fan666 reply :
On 7/22/2014 at 6:50 AM, coak said:You want a cheaper, solid, reliable Quantum? Get an older Tour Edition--either the older blue one or the chrome finish. Both can be had for $100 or less and in my humble opinion are a great reel for the dough! A real workhorse of the Quantum reel lineup.
Now I'm probably going to wind up buying both. Lol I love the way the smoke looks so I'm definitely buying one of those for sure and I'll check out that Tour Edition in just a second.
SirSnookalot reply :
I absolutely love my Cabo 40 but that is the smallest reel in that series, @ 14 oz it wouldn't be my choice for some rods, like a 7' med. Mine is on a 7'6 mh Star max lure wt 2oz., it's near perfect on this set up. I'm real interested in checking out the Iron 30 and Smoke 40, don't think I want anything lighter.
gulfcaptain reply :
Good to see that there are quite a few people on here that really do like their Quantums. And as far as reviews on products, if you haven't fished it, don't review it. And picking one up in a tacklestore and playing with it doesn't qualify. I don't give reviews until I take it out, use it a few times, and get a good feeling for it. And fyi, off topic, have a couple Shimano Torium saltwater reels, everyone bashed my Newells for years, well the 2 Toriums are in a box because they couldn't hold up, my Newells that are almost 20yrs old, still going strong. But love fishing Quantum reels, have no problem with their braking systems, and all handle what I expect and require them to do without fail.
LMB KING reply :
On 7/22/2014 at 2:09 PM, SirSnookalot said:I absolutely love my Cabo 40 but that is the smallest reel in that series, @ 14 oz it wouldn't be my choice for some rods, like a 7' med. Mine is on a 7'6 mh Star max lure wt 2oz., it's near perfect on this set up. I'm real interested in checking out the Iron 30 and Smoke 40, don't think I want anything lighter.
I'm buying the 2500 for freshwater and saltwater. Its the perfect size because its gets 150 yards of 20 pound braid which is perfect for snook, redfish and seatrout, but if i want to get a largemouth out of the thickness of weed, the iron has 16 pounds of drag so it wont be a problem. That's versatility to the max.
Slipknot_Fan666 reply :
On 7/23/2014 at 12:48 AM, LMB KING said:I'm buying the 2500 for freshwater and saltwater. Its the perfect size because its gets 150 yards of 20 pound braid which is perfect for snook, redfish and seatrout, but if i want to get a largemouth out of the thickness of weed, the iron has 16 pounds of drag so it wont be a problem. That's versatility to the max.
I can't use spinning gear, I just don't like it. I don't think I would like saltwater fishing either, it's got tactics that I don't think I'd be interested in and fighting a fish for 30 minutes doesn't seem to fun to me unless it's a huge river fish. Lol I may try it sometime though.
LMB KING reply :
On 7/23/2014 at 1:12 AM, Demonic Forrest said:I can't use spinning gear, I just don't like it. I don't think I would like saltwater fishing either, it's got tactics that I don't think I'd be interested in and fighting a fish for 30 minutes doesn't seem to fun to me unless it's a huge river fish. Lol I may try it sometime though.
Fighting a fish for 30 Min? Most of the inshore saltwater fish will fight as long as a largemouth would fight. Snook, redfish, seatrout and peacock bass will not even fight 10 min. Once they grab the bait, its short strong runs and they get tired very quickly like a bass. The only inshore fish that runs more than 30 min is tarpon, big black drum and big jacks.
Slipknot_Fan666 reply :
On 7/23/2014 at 1:20 AM, LMB KING said:Fighting a fish for 30 Min? Most of the inshore saltwater fish will fight as long as a largemouth would fight. Snook, redfish, seatrout and peacock bass will not even fight 10 min. Once they grab the bait, its short strong runs and they get tired very quickly like a bass. The only inshore fish that runs more than 30 min is tarpon, big black drum and big jacks.
I wasn't aware, I just always see videos of people taking forever to pull in some fish. It still seems like freshwater suits me best though.
jdl2425 reply :
When I was looking for a new baitcaster, I wanted one for under $100. I looked into what Quantum had to offer but the reviews of their lower end reels (under $100) seemed to be 50/50 on TW. The $90 Lew's had very little (if any) negative reviews that I read about. I also looked into what Shimano, Abu, and Daiwa had to offer. But with a $20 rebate and 15% off TW sale, the Lew's was the reel for me. I feel that there are better reels for the price than what Quantum offers. On the other hand, the Smoke reels look sweet and I hope I can own one someday.
gulfcaptain reply :
Only area not a fan of Quantum on is the spinning reels, namely because they did away with the ability to be able to back reel as they don't have that option on some of their reels and like using the 100 size spinning with 10lb braid, so unfortunatly I fish Okuma's which I have been plesently supprised by as well. But if they still had the ability to be able to back reel I would have purchased Quantums, just don't have the function I wanted. 
LMB KING reply :
On 7/23/2014 at 1:55 AM, jdl2425 said:When I was looking for a new baitcaster, I wanted one for under $100. I looked into what Quantum had to offer but the reviews of their lower end reels (under $100) seemed to be 50/50 on TW. The $90 Lew's had very little (if any) negative reviews that I read about. I also looked into what Shimano, Abu, and Daiwa had to offer. But with a $20 rebate and 15% off TW sale, the Lew's was the reel for me. I feel that there are better reels for the price than what Quantum offers. On the other hand, the Smoke reels look sweet and I hope I can own one someday.
I usually don't listen to reviews because alot of people don't take care of their gear or don't know how to use it properly. Also alot of shimano people will never admit that their shimano brakes ( i witness this myself) On the other hand, My preference is quantum, i have a lews reel it dont not have the quality that a quantum has IMO.
Glenn reply :
No way! Really? You like Quantum? Who knew!
This thread is quickly becoming redundant. If anyone has anything NEW to add, knock yourself out. Otherwise. let's move on.
Thanks!
SirSnookalot reply :
Quantum is very popular, just not with freshwater fishermen here in South Florida. Salties love em.
kikstand454 reply :
I'm confused as to why the detractors here keep referring to quantums as zebcos. That's like referring shimanos to Bantums isn't it? The departments have parted ways many, many moons ago and aren't related in anyway. Comparing a quantum pt tour edition to a zebco 33 is just. .....I mean. .... that's just. ... I don't even have anything nice I can say about that.
Someone else said they couldn't throw a "zebco" all day and catch bass with it. That its not up to the task. What? There seems to be plenty of professionals that do it every day and make alot of money at it in the process.
I have lots of quantum reels and I have used them for 6-8years now and never. ....not one time ever. ...had a problem with a single one of them. Ever. From the blue PT tour all the way down to the old old grey accurist- they are solid reels that I still fish with every time I go out. Fresh and salt.
All brands have bad reels/ models. Every shimano I have used below a citica is junk. Daiwa? Tons of junk below $150. Low profile Abu that's NOT a revo? ?? Starter reels. Brand loyalty is fine and everyone loves what they love. But outright brand hate is ignorant/pointless .
EDIT: All that being said- if you have any quantums you think are zebco junk, especially accurists, energy's , kvd, or tour pros- feel free to contact me on taking them off your hands and disposing of them properly. Ill even pay the shipping.
WdyCrankbait reply :
Well, I am going to demo an EXO PT here in a couple of days through TW. I've always been curious about them, just not sure I want to pay $250/reel yet. (I have a family of supertuned Curado E's and a Revo Rocket, but I am an engineer and really like the EXO design philosophy.)
I checked Tackle Tour and their rating on the EXO was higher than most reels I have, or considering.
QUAKEnSHAKE reply :
Well might this speak to Quantums popularity
111 BR ICAST videos not one Quantum related
LMB KING reply :
On 7/24/2014 at 6:20 AM, WdyCrankbait said:Well, I am going to demo an EXO PT here in a couple of days through TW. I've always been curious about them, just not sure I want to pay $250/reel yet. (I have a family of supertuned Curado E's and a Revo Rocket, but I am an engineer and really like the EXO design philosophy.)
I checked Tackle Tour and their rating on the EXO was higher than most reels I have, or considering.
Cool. I am majoring in engineer as well. Give the EXO a try, you'll be glad you did. Its better than most reels on the market today IMO
J Francho reply :
The EXO is a pretty cool looking reel. They basically reversed the reinforcing structures in the frame and side plates, exposing and stylizing what is usually inside the reel. Does that make it lighter? I don't know, though it is a light reel. It sure is easy on the eyes, and at that price point will be quality. I think it's a better choice than the Smoke.
FSUMF333 reply :
I chose the smokes over the exo because I saw something I felt might cause problems down the road the reel foot on the reel is riveted to the reel not one whole peice I thought it looked like they would work themselves loose over time and the reel would wobble on the rod. But having already owned a smoke I knew it was a good buy the smokes are just awesome reels I love mine & they have never let me down.
J Francho reply :
Years ago they were all riveted. I don't think I ever saw one come loose. I have seen a few cast feet break clean off, though. It's really unusual, though. Talking like twice out hundreds of reels I've worked on
LMB KING reply :
Smoke or EXO both are awesome and dependable reels as all with Quantum reels.
Capt.Bob reply :
I tried em more than once, the spinning reels were very short lived, after that I tried a baitcaster, but at the time being used to Abu's, they really didn't have a chance, today I have reel's that give me no reason to give em another chance for disappointment. I do service them once in a great while though, and what I see gives me reason for doubt in there ability to keep that smooth new feeling as long as most, besides I'm helping keep the cost down for others.
I have to say I think they make more lower priced models, and as far as pro's using them, they can have brand new reels every tournament and it's all on Quantum! But rely on their endorsements heavily,,,,,,maybe this is one reason???
kikstand454 reply :
^^^^^ while I agree that the pros certainly fish with free reels and promote whoever is paying them the most - by the same token I'm sure they don't feel confident putting their career on the line trusting cheap junk.
Pros need to stay relevent to stay sponsored, and if they feel their gear will let them down when it counts- well I imagine they wouldn't want to be involved with it. No matter how much they're getting sponsored.
Of course they over hype and over exaggerate the quality of the stuff they're pushing- that's their job. But I think there has to be a level of confidence and trust in the product for them to physically use it when there's $100k on the line. One reel failure at the wrong time could be disastrous for an entire career. I'm sure that's taken into consideration.
Mike2841 reply :
On 7/22/2014 at 2:09 PM, SirSnookalot said:I absolutely love my Cabo 40 but that is the smallest reel in that series, @ 14 oz it wouldn't be my choice for some rods, like a 7' med. Mine is on a 7'6 mh Star max lure wt 2oz., it's near perfect on this set up. I'm real interested in checking out the Iron 30 and Smoke 40, don't think I want anything lighter.
What do you think of a cabo 40 on a 9 ft med rod. Right now I have a stardic 6000 but it seems too big for the rod
Tywithay reply :
On 7/23/2014 at 10:45 PM, kikstand454 said:I'm confused as to why the detractors here keep referring to quantums as zebcos. That's like referring shimanos to Bantums isn't it? The departments have parted ways many, many moons ago and aren't related in anyway. Comparing a quantum pt tour edition to a zebco 33 is just. .....I mean. .... that's just. ... I don't even have anything nice I can say about that.
Someone else said they couldn't throw a "zebco" all day and catch bass with it. That its not up to the task. What? There seems to be plenty of professionals that do it every day and make alot of money at it in the process.
I have lots of quantum reels and I have used them for 6-8years now and never. ....not one time ever. ...had a problem with a single one of them. Ever. From the blue PT tour all the way down to the old old grey accurist- they are solid reels that I still fish with every time I go out. Fresh and salt.
All brands have bad reels/ models. Every shimano I have used below a citica is junk. Daiwa? Tons of junk below $150. Low profile Abu that's NOT a revo? ?? Starter reels. Brand loyalty is fine and everyone loves what they love. But outright brand hate is ignorant/pointless .
EDIT: All that being said- if you have any quantums you think are zebco junk, especially accurists, energy's , kvd, or tour pros- feel free to contact me on taking them off your hands and disposing of them properly. Ill even pay the shipping.
Overseas they're called a Zebco Smoke and Zebco Accurist.
Slipknot_Fan666 reply :
On 7/26/2014 at 4:59 AM, Tywithay said:Overseas they're called a Zebco Smoke and Zebco Accurist.
People can call it what they want. Zebco is a good company, whether anyone will admit it or not. I will call it a Quantum still, but the people who try to make the brand sound worse by calling the reels Zebco's are mainly just looking foolish. Most of the people here, I'm guessing, started out on Zebco reels.
LMB KING reply :
I paired it up with an ugly stik because a bulletproof reel needs a bulletproof rod. enough said.
SirSnookalot reply :
On 7/26/2014 at 1:28 AM, Mike2841 said:What do you think of a cabo 40 on a 9 ft med rod. Right now I have a stardic 6000 but it seems too big for the rod
Can't honestly say without fishing that set up but it is 6 oz lighter than a 6000 stradic. At 20 oz the stradic weight wise isn't that heavy.
The latest designed Cabo is much improved over their previous model which I own as well. I'm not gonna say it's the greatest reel but in the $200 market it's my choice. There is a time and place where the Cabo shines over a stradic. In this case it's a lighter reel with similar line capacity, excellent drag with a fool proof bail. Being objective there are set ups and situations where I would prefer the stradic, my opinion is based on the 2 4000 fi that I own, I do not have an fj so can't really comment on that reel.
My newly designed Cabo is on a 7'6 mh Star rod, this is not just a rod and reel but a weapon that has already proved itself to me. I field tested quite a few rods before I settled on the Star.
Josh Smith reply :
Well Guys,
I got my hands on a Quantum that was made in Korea.
It's much better quality than any of this made in China stuff. It's not up to the made in Sweden round Abu Garcias, but it's pretty good. It has plastic in only a couple places it shouldn't compared to most of the low-profiles I see today.
I would own another Quantum like this one.
Josh
LMB KING reply :
On 7/26/2014 at 11:29 PM, Josh Smith said:Well Guys,
I got my hands on a Quantum that was made in Korea.
It's much better quality than any of this made in China stuff. It's not up to the made in Sweden round Abu Garcias, but it's pretty good. It has plastic in only a couple places it shouldn't compared to most of the low-profiles I see today.
I would own another Quantum like this one.
Josh
What reel is that? And just because its made in china, doesn't mean that is a bad product. I do prefer made in usa products, but some china made products has proven it self over the years. People are just using that example to hate on a product they dont like. I bet if shimano was made in china, you would never hear a word about being made their.
Josh Smith reply :
It's an LEX200, or was advertised as such. Most markings are worn off and I can only make out a "5." on the side. Five point what? Dunno.
I have no experience -- none, zero -- with Shimano and had no idea they aren't made in China.
Oh well.
Josh
Josh Smith reply :
It's an LEX200, or was advertised as such. Most markings are worn off and I can only make out a "5." on the side. Five point what? Dunno.
I have no experience -- none, zero -- with Shimano and had no idea they aren't made in China.
Oh well.
Josh
LMB KING reply :
On 7/27/2014 at 2:04 AM, Josh Smith said:It's an LEX200, or was advertised as such. Most markings are worn off and I can only make out a "5." on the side. Five point what? Dunno.
I have no experience -- none, zero -- with Shimano and had no idea they aren't made in China.
Oh well.
Josh
are you a hater trying to be funny?
Catch and Grease reply :
Let's try not to get this awesome thread locked guys hahaha
Josh Smith reply :
On 7/27/2014 at 3:43 AM, LMB KING said:are you a hater trying to be funny?
Dude, no!
I like what works for me. I'm curious about what works for other people.
Abu Garcia round reels are what work for me. I bought a Black Max II to see what these were like, and I found that I didn't like it.
I have never used a Shimano. No experience.
This thread and another thread (where I had asked for a list of reels NOT made in China) prompted me to buy a Korean-made reel. I figured that since I had an early Quantum (a 1310) and liked it, I might as well get a slightly newer Quantum that was made in Korea.
I went to eBay and found one that seemed to have been used but not abused. It said "made in Korea" on the foot and I could make out a 5. something on the side. It was advertised as an LEX 200.
The expired listing is here: http://www.ebay.com/itm/Quantum-LEX-200-Anti-Reverse-Bait-Casting-Reel-Good-Condition-/191224374105?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2047675.l2557&nma=true&si=U4rTSeBmNRf9tB01kBqE2CD3jjE%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc
For $8.50, it's nice. There were a couple hangups inside, but that was due to sand and nothing more. It's fixed.
Remember, I've not kept up with new stuff since 1998 or so, and even then I didn't read much but went with what worked on the water. Dad was the one doing the reading and studying at the time.
I also bought a Mitchel 301 spinning for next-to-nothing.
The idea is that, if I buy a reel and like it, I'll fix and keep it. If I fix it up and find out it doesn't work for me as well as I'd like, I trade it, or in what is more often the case, give it away locally to someone trying to break into the sport.
The last one I gave away was a spinning combo made of a Shakespeare LXIII I repaired/rebuilt/tuned/whatever. An acquaintance of mine loaned me his flatbed trailer to move some stuff, saved me a bunch of money, and wouldn't take payment. I spooled it with fluorocarbon and told him to enjoy it.
Was the Shakespeare LXIII considered a good reel? Heck, I dunno. It looked OK inside and felt good when I tested it. Would it hold up long-term? I simply do not know. It looked like it would but it also had plastic in a couple places I wouldn't want plastic.
If I want to know about something, I buy it if I can afford it, and I take it apart. Usually the thing, whatever it is, needs cleaned out anyway, so taking it apart and looking at the guts is incidental to maintenance.
If Chinese reels work for you, hey, I have nothing against that. I'm glad they work for you. I grew up on Zebco spincasting reels and later learned baitcasting on a centrifugal-braked Ambassadeur reel. I'm therefore partial to them.
I have no idea the long-term quality of the LEX 200. It looks decent and if the components are not cheap, it should hold up.
May I ask, why did you think that I am a
?Quoteare you a hater trying to be funny
I sincerely don't know. I joined this board when I got back into fishing and found I was behind the curve with regard to equipment. I'm finding the combination of new and old that I like (I love braid and fluorocarbon and hate magnetic brakes, for example).
From my limited experience with Quantum, they do seem good. I'm not going to commit myself to a blanket statement like "all Quantums are good." I won't even say that most are. I will say I don't have the experience to say this, and that most low-pro reels look the same and from what I've heard, pretty much all use the same design from the same factories.
True? I've not see it first-hand, so I don't know.
I'm only relating what works for me and my limited experiences. If someone has a new Quantum they'd like to send me to clean out or tune or whatever, it would give me the opportunity to see the guts and maybe form an opinion. It would be interesting.
Regards,
Josh
LMB KING reply :
Oh ok. I thought you were trying to be funny. We all know that alot of people here hate Quantum reels and love their plastic overrated Shimano. So they use the word Zebco to make fun of quantum reels or to make them look like their bad reels. I am a proud owner of zebco brands.
Josh Smith reply :
On 7/27/2014 at 5:25 AM, LMB KING said:Oh ok. I thought you were trying to be funny. We all know that alot of people here hate Quantum reels and love their plastic overrated Shimano. So they use the word Zebco to make fun of quantum reels or to make them look like their bad reels. I am a proud owner of zebco brands. My experience is off the roof. I spend thousands of dollars on gears like Shimano, Daiwa, Abu garcia and other brands. I'm a true gear-head. I don't mind spending $1000 on a reel. (i'v done it before) I also have videos of a Shimano Stella($1000 reel) the new one that was not working properly and broke, but wont dare put it here because it will offend alot of people here. You can also look up on youtube and find videos of stella braking on people but people ignore that.
Hello,
Man, I don't hate Quantum and didn't know that folks here did. I knew not to dis Shimano, but only because I was told by a friendly member via PM that it was a bad idea... that, and I have no experience either positive or negative.
My first reel was a Zebco. I don't recall what it was; it was a little black thing. The next one was a Zebco 33 (made in USA). I still have Grandpa's made in USA Zebco 33 on a vintage Cherrywood reel in the other room. My first ultralight was a Feathertouch combo, under-rod spinning reel. That thing took bass, walleye, saugeye, and even a couple catfish!
As far as I'm concerned, Zebco is good. In fact, when I first saw a Quantum, I was turned off because I didn't know the name. I found out later it was a Zebco and thought, "whey the hell didn't they just say that???"
New Zebco 33 reels are not as good as the old ones. I've serviced both and the new ones seem a step away from disposable. It's an insult to the name.
Likewise, I've been scared to try the Abu Garcia Ambassadeur "S". I'm sure I won't like what I see inside it. I might be compelled by curiosity, but am sure not looking forward to it.
By the way, I did a bit of research and it turns out the Quantum I referenced in this thread -- the one I just bought on eBay -- is actually an EX200, not an LEX200. I have no idea what an LEX200 might be. The EX200 seems like a decent reel with the only thing going against it is the magnetic braking system. This latter is, of course, personal preference.
Regards,
Josh
Maxximus Redneckus reply :
Lol @ the pm to not talk bad about shimano..if someone pm,ed about that id do it just for spite to watch a thread get locked and watch diapers fill up with BS
LMB KING reply :
On 7/27/2014 at 6:13 AM, Josh Smith said:
Hello,
Man, I don't hate Quantum and didn't know that folks here did. I knew not to dis Shimano, but only because I was told by a friendly member via PM that it was a bad idea... that, and I have no experience either positive or negative.
My first reel was a Zebco. I don't recall what it was; it was a little black thing. The next one was a Zebco 33 (made in USA). I still have Grandpa's made in USA Zebco 33 on a vintage Cherrywood reel in the other room. My first ultralight was a Feathertouch combo, under-rod spinning reel. That thing took bass, walleye, saugeye, and even a couple catfish!
Regards,
Josh
My first reel ever was a shakespeare from walmart over 15 years ago and i still have it lol. If feel like making a (show your quantum reels thread) or (show your zebco reels thread)
Catch and Grease reply :
On 7/27/2014 at 6:19 AM, Maxximus Redneckus said:Lol @ the pm to not talk bad about shimano..if someone pm,ed about that id do it just for spite to watch a thread get locked and watch diapers fill up with BS
Your not supposed to brand bash on bass resource.
LMB KING reply :
On 7/27/2014 at 6:58 AM, Catch and Grease said:Your not supposed to brand bash on bass resource.
yea so how come when people talk about quantum all they do is bash? let me guess, when its about shimano its not allowed but when its about quantum it is ok? you have to play fair. the only reason why i bash shimano is because those shimano guys that never used a quantum say that zebco sucks. truth hurts.
plumworm reply :
Give it up LMB King. Every post becomes more whiney.
LMB KING reply :
On 7/27/2014 at 7:16 AM, plumworm said:Give it up LMB King. Every post becomes more whiney.
oh oh we have another shimano guy here. yea i know that its hard to take the facts buddy
Catch and Grease reply :
are you serious? I hear people complaining about shimano products more than quantum because they are more popular. And nobody has been "bashing" them lately. They have only been giving their honest opinion in a well thought out post, not just getting on here like " lul quantum suxs, #Shimano4life #quantumblows"
LMB KING reply :
Ok i'm seriously done here now for real!!! This thread is very long. Now let it fade down slowly.
Josh Smith reply :
On 7/27/2014 at 6:58 AM, Catch and Grease said:Your not supposed to brand bash on bass resource.
Well, the Shimano thing was sort of tongue-in-cheek with a couple other unwritten rules.
As far as I'm concerned, everyone has put out some really great reels as well as some stinkers.
My only concern is looking deeper than skin deep or even functionality to find what I'm looking for.
I have Abu Garcia, Quantum, and look forward to finding a Lew's or two and a Shimano.
It would be really boring if ice cream only came in vanilla, you know?
Regards,
Josh
hubshooter reply :
I own two Quantums myself, one EXO and a Team KVD. The EXO is an overall good reel, however, there are certain features about it that aren't aesthetically pleasing such as the side plate not having the brake adjustment on it. For the money I would prefer to have a magnetic and centrifugal brake (I bought the reel at a discounted price though). Given I do own three Lew's reels and they have aforementioned feature. Plus they just are ergonomically pleasing for me. Just my two cents.
Mike2841 reply :
On 7/26/2014 at 2:49 PM, SirSnookalot said:Can't honestly say without fishing that set up but it is 6 oz lighter than a 6000 stradic. At 20 oz the stradic weight wise isn't that heavy.
The latest designed Cabo is much improved over their previous model which I own as well. I'm not gonna say it's the greatest reel but in the $200 market it's my choice. There is a time and place where the Cabo shines over a stradic. In this case it's a lighter reel with similar line capacity, excellent drag with a fool proof bail. Being objective there are set ups and situations where I would prefer the stradic, my opinion is based on the 2 4000 fi that I own, I do not have an fj so can't really comment on that reel.
My newly designed Cabo is on a 7'6 mh Star rod, this is not just a rod and reel but a weapon that has already proved itself to me. I field tested quite a few rods before I settled on the Star.
Thanks for your input, went to bass pro today to check it out. Ended up getting a saragosa, I really like the egg shaped knobs shimano uses over the cabos t handle.
FishTank reply :
On 7/27/2014 at 5:25 AM, LMB KING said:Oh ok. I thought you were trying to be funny. We all know that alot of people here hate Quantum reels and love their plastic overrated Shimano. So they use the word Zebco to make fun of quantum reels or to make them look like their bad reels. I am a proud owner of zebco brands.
I think the Zebco name helps Quantum. Who hasn't owned a Zebco 33 or 44? The 44 was high tech back in the day. I saw guy fishing one today that had to be 20 years old. He was fishing for bluegill but caught a nice size LMB with it. The reel performed flawlessly.
I think Quantum needs to develop a workhorse reel (like the Zebco 33) and stick to it. They seem to lack a fan base towards a particular model.
One other thing I would like to know is, how many people have older Quantum reels that they regularly fish? >>As to say, how people have a love affair with the old green curado. I have seen some held together with duck tape/glue and guys still claim it's the greatest reel ever. You still see them on ebay, in beat up condition, going for $75. One quote on this thread said that they were the worst of the best. If they want to loose that perception, they need to develop the blind faith that people have with that old curado.
Jrob78 reply :
On 7/27/2014 at 11:47 AM, FishTank said:One other thing I would like to know is, how many people have older Quantum reels that they regularly fish? >>As to say, how people have a love affair with the old green curado. I have seen some held together with duck tape/glue and guys still claim it's the greatest reel ever. You still see them on ebay, in beat up condition, going for $75. One quote on this thread said that they were the worst of the best. If they want to loose that perception, they need to develop the blind faith that people have with that old curado.
This is why Quantum gets a bad rap now. When is the last time Shimano or Daiwa put out a stinker in the $100+ market? They have released reels that weren't popular but I can't think of any that were bad reels. Quantum can't say that. The Curado G took a lot of heat but that was mostly political, not based on performance. When Quantum has a better track record of releasing quality reels for a long period of time, their bad reputation will start to diminish. I believe they are on their way, it will just take time.
J Francho reply :
Dis Shimano? The only thing I can think think of wrong with that is if you never owned one. It's why I dismiss those comments that dis any brand without at least trying it. Unless it's Lew's. I kid, I kid! (Thats a friendly inside joke for a few guys that know what I'm talking about). Often on the internet, you got guys that regurgitate what they've heard. Is it true? Sometimes. Mostly not, or what they heard wasn't the whole story. I bought a greenie back in the early 90s. We didn't get along. I took it back and got two Daiwas and a Quantum IR3 round reel. I still have that reel. The Daiwas are long gone, sold them years ago after years of service. I found I liked Daiwas. Funny thing, I didn't dismiss Shimano. I own several today. I didn't dismiss Quantum, but like I said earlier in the thread, they don't turn my screws. Neither do Dodge trucks, Sony electronics, or anything Android. There's no point go over and over how great you think something is to someone that doesn't care, or worse doesn't like - you're biting your own neck.
Buy what you like. If it's something that turns your screws, tell us what and why. But don't sit here and troll for haters. It actually creates more haters, and looks petty. I can't imagine sitting in a boat with someone for eight hours having the kind of exchange that's going on here. Catching bass is hard enough without worrying whether you're using the right reel, wearing the right clothes, driving the right car....
With that, I bid this thread and all goodnight.
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