I'm with you on that thought. I've been doing some addition reading on the subject and I came across this:

http://www.learntocatchcatfish.com/abu-garcia-6600-bcx-product-review-field-test

Academy may have closed them out, but they sold an Abu round reel in a cheap combo that just had one bearing and was still made in Sweden (had the 90's type model hard plastic round knobs).

I'd chose that one considering the mixed reviews of the bcx if you were electing to save some money and not get a used c3/4.

Southwestern Parts and Service always have the 5000 and 6000 series for 30.00 to 60.00 bucks (swedish ones), they are used but they have been serviced and are just as good as new or better. I've bought possibly 20 or more of these reels from them over the past few years and use them in my arsenal. Mondays are the best days to get great deals as they put the newly rebuilt ones out that day.

Rob

Yep, I've got one. Caught the catfish in my Sig. Very nice reel for the price. Same reel as a c3, just with one bearing. Put 2 more bearings in it for cheap, and its a c3.

I have several 4600's that have been rebuilt completely. I know I have two 4600c3's in Silver. Both have been completely gone through and even have new handles, worms, Pawls, idle gears and one has new gears (7/10 below). One is 9/10 in appearance, it is 60 bucks and the other is 7/10 in appearance at $50.00. Both are 10/10 in mechanical. Will sell both as a set for $100.00.

I also have a Quantum IRC3 that is in new condition (has been used very little) $50 on it also.

There are a couple of vintage reels too. One 70's Red 5000 and one 70's red 6000 with the single paddle handle. Both are 50 bucks and have been gone through and have new worms and pawls. Still quite smooth and are 7/10 in appearance with boat rash on the top but not bad.

Plenty of used Swedish-made Ambassadeurs on eBay and elsewhere. All made better than most new stuff of any brand. And it is fun to find an "experienced" reel that may need a little work, but will last forever with proper care.

Go with the C3 and C4. Actually go with the C4 series (only $10 difference but it's definitely worth it).
These are the BEST round reel for less than $100.

I just added a swedish made 6000 to my gear. Found it in a garage sale and gave it a tune up and lubed it. The stamped numbers on the bottom date it June 1964. It casts like a dream and I couldn't be happier.