So some of my buddies who get to fish a LOT more than I do, have been trying the KastKing Assassin for several months now. They have had nothing but positive things to say about this reel. I got to try one of theirs out recently & was more than impressed for a $60.00 reel. I need to replace a couple of original Revo S's so I looked on Fleabay & saw their new reel, The Speed Demon 9.3:1 for $70.00 shipped.

Now for that price,there are no carbon fiber side plates or aluminum frames to reduce weight like the new offerings - on the contrary this thing weighs as much as an old Ambassador. I couldn't resist a roll of the dice. I assume the trade-off will be longevity but I have spent a lot more than that on a reel & have been disappointed.

I will report back with periodic reviews.

Might as well go to academy and buy a $50 h2o or there's a lews model that is $50-$60. I have both and they are good reels

Totally agree, but not with the 9:3.1 speed. I've got a couple of H2O Mettles & a Lews BB2 HZ on my swimbait rod. Very good reels. But this Speed Demon might be a value if it's as good as the Assassin that I used for a weekend. We'll see.

Shishamo: $27.99 with free shipping from ebay.

I've never fished or held this reel, but a friend of my brother bought one and likes it. So, my brother recently bought one as well.

If he likes it, I may have a Shishamo in my future......

Don't forget, KastKing, Shishamo, Piscifun, etc are all available on Amazon too. (Prime shipping usually available)