I read the forum a lot, but don't post very often. I get a lot of good information from the posts.

I am picking out a new crankbait rig and am trying to pick a reel. I have 3 of the E7's and a citica and am happy with all of them, but the Revo Winch comes up alot in crankbait threads.

From guys with experience with both, any reason to try the Abu over an E5? thanks.

They are both excellent reels. I use an E5 but the Winch is a great reel. Buy the one you like the best.

I love my winch a lot! But that's me...

I went through the same thing earlier this year. I have 5 or 6 shimano reels and havent had any trouble with them so i bought the e5. It is a great reel and so far it has held up fantastic.

I'm trying to decide the same thing. Leaning toward the E5.

The winch is my favorite reel. I use the Winch for DD crankbaits and the E5 for shallow to mid cranks.

I have Citica's, Curado, and a Chronarch. I recently got a BPS Pro Qualifier 4:6 ratio for 89 dollars and its a really nice reel.

I have one of each and couldn't actually say one is far better than the other. In my opinion the E5 is easier to get adjusted when drastically changing the weight of the lure you are throwing and for throwing lighter weights (not really an issue when throwing DD crankbaits) but the Winch is very nice also and casts a mile. I don't think you will be disappointed whith whichever you choose.

Jason

Both are good reels but I prefer the winch.

I have owned both and the winch is smoother and IMO casts further. It just feels like a reel that is better designed for throwing big crankbaits. There is really nothing better than a purpose built piece of equipment. To be honest though I think that the rod is probably more important than the choosing between a winch and an E5 having a glass or e-glass rod that doesnt resonate when you cast will give the best distance on your crankbaits. The one I have found that works best for really getting under them and going a mile is the quantum KVD 7'10"MH. It is the only product made by quantum that I own as I am generally totally against quantum, but they definitely got that series right. Match a good reel with a rod that is right for the way you cast and youll be nothing but happy with it.

I had both for quite a while and only used both for DD22. I think the Winch casts further out of the two but both are very solid reels. I would pick whatever is less expensive or if you need the extra yards then definately get the Winch.

I don't own either, but am a die hard Revo guy. That being said, Tackle Tour did a comparison of cranking reels that included both of these reels, and two others. Interesting reading. Here's a link.

http://www.tackletour.com/review2010lowspeedfinal.html

Can't compare with the E5, have never used one, but the Winch is a smooth, powerful, well-built reel that works great with DDs.

You cannot beat a Curado. I own 5 of the new ones. 1 E5 and 4 E7s. I also own a REVO. I fish the coast as well as the lakes and have never been let down by them.

Another vote for the E5...I love mine!