SX 1 or 2 speed?

Trebo · Jan-04-2008, 01:39 PM

Almost pulled the trigger yesterday on an SX5.3, but thought I'd wait until I had a chance to get some feedback on the 6/4. As I mentioned in a previous thread, my fishing has been (almost) exclusively single day inshore. In short, my question is, Is the 6/4 worth the extra $80, or is this money better put toward a second reel? Thanks.

SpikeCB22 · Jan-04-2008, 02:17 PM

I've got an MXJ 6.3. I've never missed the lower gear. Save the $80.

okie man · Jan-04-2008, 03:46 PM

only way i'd get 2 speed is if i was going to let my little boy use it. other wise save the money for fishing trips or more tackle.

T'Una Mas · Jan-04-2008, 03:58 PM

I bought 3 SX's last year for the kids (twins 9 and an 11 yo) to take to Alaska. All were single speed. They had a ball with them all week and they never neeed 2 speeds whether fishing butts or salmon! We were fishing off Baranof. This summer they used them off the East Coast for stripers and blues, and they haven't missed a beat.

gregwhaler · Jan-04-2008, 05:22 PM

Personally, can't see using 2 spd for anything less than 40#.

Alter Ego · Jan-04-2008, 07:03 PM

Agreed. My MXL is single speed. I don't think you need a 2 speed in that line class. 40# is my lightest 2 speed rig.

marlyn · Jan-04-2008, 09:34 PM

interesting,ive been pondering the same questions myself.at what line class does a 2 speed really become advantagious?my thoughts were 40 pound also but ive talked to quite a few guys with 2 speed sx's who swear by them for 20 lb,anyone else here who uses 2 speeds on the lighter line classes?

Double Z · Jan-04-2008, 09:39 PM

with the 2 speed, you get 6-1 gearing.

baja tailhunter · Jan-04-2008, 10:08 PM

the only reason for a 6-1 ratio is jigging iron. never jig with less than 40# line for yellows.

marlyn · Jan-04-2008, 10:30 PM

double z didnt you use an sx quite a bit on that rooster trip last year?was it a 2 speed?if not do you think a 2 speed would have helped?what pound test did you use on it?

DaBigOno · Jan-05-2008, 12:50 AM

get a single speed and save your money. the sx is a good 20-25 lb reel and wont require a very low gear ratio to turn that handle. maybe you could put the extra money and buy another avet reel like a single speed mxl or mxj.... yeah, do that!!!!

Double Z · Jan-05-2008, 05:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by marlyn

double z didnt you use an sx quite a bit on that rooster trip last year?was it a 2 speed?if not do you think a 2 speed would have helped?what pound test did you use on it?

Single speed I got from Karl. It was absolutely my go to rig. 50lb spectra with a very short topper of 25lb Stren pink flouro tied to a ringed Owner 2/0. I was right at 7.5lbs at strike and 10+ at full. I'll never look at SX or 270 size reels the same again. Don't forget, there are several people here that have caught much bigger tuna on the SX. My biggest was under 60lbs and I know there are 70+pounders taken. I hope to improve this year.

I had a two speed on the trip but hardly fished it. I like it more for throwing iron locally and it actually worked pretty well on bottom critters my last trip.