New SX-Raptor 2-speed, and more

Old&In The Way · Aug-14-2009, 03:37 PM

Without seeing one, or touching one, I already know how it works. I just pick up a PRO EX 30/02 N, and then imagine it's smaller than a pack of cigarettes. An amazing little reel!

marlyn · Aug-14-2009, 04:04 PM

drags are still dry i take it?

Jetblack · Aug-14-2009, 10:30 PM

yes, they are dry. but there is no aluminum/carbon interface where corrosion may take place. So it's down to a personal desire of "smoothness". This one I have here is fine in that respect.

Jetblack

Old&In The Way · Aug-17-2009, 02:57 PM

I looked at the calender, and in 2 weeks, I'll have my SX Raptor. I'm anxious to test it and find out what the "real world" numbers are? If I break it in properly, I'm guessing it will go 19# at strike, and 30#, at full? Should be interesting.

jorge91919 · Aug-18-2009, 05:05 PM

X2

jpfilippi · Aug-18-2009, 05:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Old&In The Way

I looked at the calender, and in 2 weeks, I'll have my SX Raptor. I'm anxious to test it and find out what the "real world" numbers are? If I break it in properly, I'm guessing it will go 19# at strike, and 30#, at full? Should be interesting.

jeeeeesus, i've got a 50W at 28# at strike. somethings gonna give eventually at 30#full. yes keep us posted

mike garone · Aug-19-2009, 10:29 PM

Just curious are they keeping the gear ratios the same? I just sold my JX 2 speed because it didnt have the drag I was looking for and I felt the high gear was too high and the low was too low.

Old&In The Way · Aug-19-2009, 10:55 PM

"Gearing" is not just a ratio of 6:1, but also spool diameter/circumference. If a spool is 1 inch diameter, it will turn a lot easier than one that's 3 inch diameter. A JX 6/3 will be different than a SX 6/4 with a smaller spool diameter. To further confuse the issue, as line goes out, the diameter gets smaller. If you know Geometry, you can compare reels, and figure out which one suits your purpose. The one I like best is the HXJ 5/2. It seems to have the best ratio/diameter to suit my needs.

Old&In The Way · Aug-20-2009, 05:21 PM

Just got back from The Longfin, Rick Osaki left them a new SX 6/4 MCR [Raptor], yesterday. The first run was blue or black, so mine will be black. They'll ship it next week.
What a reel! You can get 20# at strike, with 30# at full. It has a MXJ spool in a SX frame [faster retrieve and more capacity]. The cast control works really well, and it's like "Mighty Mouse". Immediately decided it needs a new style rod.
Checked out everything, SS, 800M, United/GUSA, Tady,Phoenix, and nothing seemed to suit this tiny monster reel? Looked through Calstar's "Special Order" blanks and found a perfect match. GFX800ML, extra fast taper, very small diameter, very strong backbone, and super light. They only have 2 models, M or ML, both rated for 40# line. The ML is much nicer, better tip action. Composite graphite, first 2/3, then glass. Calstar calls it a "Butterfly" rod. I'm having it done with thick cork spiral wrap and diamond shrink wrap. Putting a butt cord reel seat, 6", under the shrink wrap, and extra heavy shrink wrap. Perfect rod for this reel!

mike garone · Aug-20-2009, 07:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Old&In The Way

"Gearing" is not just a ratio of 6:1, but also spool diameter/circumference. If a spool is 1 inch diameter, it will turn a lot easier than one that's 3 inch diameter. A JX 6/3 will be different than a SX 6/4 with a smaller spool diameter. To further confuse the issue, as line goes out, the diameter gets smaller. If you know Geometry, you can compare reels, and figure out which one suits your purpose. The one I like best is the HXJ 5/2. It seems to have the best ratio/diameter to suit my needs.

I know what you are talking about, but I also need capacity and castablity. Thats why I like the JX as far as size. To me the HX is not comfortable to cast and jig with because it is too tall and the MX size doesnt quite have the capacity I am looking for.

jpfilippi · Aug-20-2009, 08:17 PM

i have both and yea the size of the hx is kinda too big, but........ it casts very very well !

Old&In The Way · Aug-20-2009, 09:17 PM

A JX 6/3 was my first Avet reel, and my favorite, until the HXJ. My problem with the JX was the drag/pinion bearing, and it was too hard to crank when set at 15# drag, at strike. That's no longer an issue, the new JX 6/3 MCR changes all that, and it's just the right size, for a jig reel. Remember, it will have a larger diameter spool and more line capacity, more than 400 yards of 60# hollow spectra. I'll "HAVE" to get one. It could be the best of the new Raptor's.