So is not having the easy braking adjustment something that should be considered a deal breaker or is pulling the cover off and making an adjust ment that big a deal?

Or is this something once you get a setting you like you don't touch again for several weeks/months?

The Quantum I have been using has the 1-10 dial on the exterior. I don't know as a beginner if this has helped me or hurt me, but is nice and easy to reduce the back lash by dialing it up to 8-10 level.

Also I have noticed on some of the more expensive reel the external Easy adjust is not there on about half the reels.

I absolutely love my quantum energy pt reels as well as my Curado, can't go wrong with Abu either.

I have had a Mettle and they are good reels BUT if you ever need a part --- which could happen if cleaning and drop one like this fumble fingers does on occasion. I don't think you can find replacement parts. That is why all my reels but 1 are Shimano Citica & Curado.

Try a Shimano Caenan. It's a great reel and ot's only ninety bucks. Feels like it costs twice that.

I cant say enough good things about my Revo... Smooth and sexy reels

US Reel supercaster..

^^^^Wisdom^^^^

WOW---Need to send this to my kids & wife. My first WISDOM---normally: oh he's just old, he's just forgot again, he's just can't remember. TED you are my new hero---if I can recall tomorrow that is; otherwise may be some one new.

doesnt the mettle come with a lifetime warranty?
if it does happen to break.. just take it back and get a brand new one

I hear Abu Garcia is great and they have a nice revo on sale for $99 on tackle warehouse. Shimano also has a few good reels under $100 but I wouldn't pass up that revo

If you are going to fish from now until they pull the rod and reel from your hands I would buy a Revo SX. not the cheapest but it will last and perform for many many years to come. You can't go wrong with a Revo and a Falcon Original rod. Learn and build from there but that will always be in your arsenal. Good luck to you sir and email me if you need any help. fatbassfishing@gmail.com

ABU GARCIA ALL THE WAY!!! Pro max or any of the revos

if you are going to be real serious get the revos, but if i were going to get reels right now i would get something like an abu silver max. the reel is fairly priced for what it is. the revos are all being redone so when they are out i would get the newer model. keep the silver max for standby and then use the revos for the full time set ups

Abu Garcia for life!

I actually have a brand new Shimano Canean baitcaster that I am looking to sell. They normally run for $90 and they are great reels that will last a life time. Looking for $70.. if you are interested just send me a PM