Strengths: Double handle. Very responsive freespool mechanism. Incredibe clutch.
Weaknesses: Its biggest weakness is its not made by Shimano, if it was everyone would use them.
Overall: This is a review of one of my 2 Abu Garcia Cardinal freespool reels (302 FR).
I was new to baitrunner type reels when i bought these but i asked questions, made mistakes and learnt a little as time progressed, and as a result im now enjoying fishing with one of anglings great manufacturers right there in the palm of my hand - Abu Garcia.
The reels are supplied with 2 spools, 1 aluminium and 1 graphite, they both take 180 yards of 8lb (although ive gotten 200 yards on mine) and the line lay is very tight and ive had no problems with it.
They came with double handles aswell as 6 ball bearings, which equates to a very smooth reel coupled up with a gear ratio of 5.1.1, it has no problem cranking in bigger fish.
The bail arm mechanism closes with a satisfying 'clunk' when you turn the handle, which just emphasises this reels quality, the bait runner facility is fully adjustable and like the bail arm also closes with the same pleasing smooth 'clunk' that you would want and expect.
The anti reverse is instant and the front spool drag is just a dream, much has been written about Abus clutch system and from what i can tell you its still amazing, for example - the feeling you get as you await the clutch to slip its fist notch can be heart stopping, ive hooked Tench and Carp close in the margins and theyve bolted off, the rod has bent into the fish and then as you start to think to yourself 'wheres the clutch? im gonna lose this fish!!' the clutch starts slipping, its the most amazing sensation coupled with pure adrenaline, it really is what fishing is all about isnt it?.
I cant praise my Abu Cardinals enough, i hope youve enjoyed this, my first review for the FM website, thankyou for reading and tight lines all.
'ABU 505FR - DOES EXACTLY WHAT IT SAYS ON THE BOX'
Strengths: Good all round reel. I tend to use both of mine when carp fishing, but they work eaqully well for medium feeder work. Good line lay, and impressive retrieve ratio. Smooth with a very responsive freespool system.
Weaknesses: Sometimes reacts badly to damp conditions. Line can stick to the aluminium spools.
Overall: As I've said before. I have alot of faith in Abu gear I wish more tackle dealers would stock more Abu stuff.
Strengths: Instant anti reverse, five ball bearing drive, rear drag , soft touch handles, spare spool included nice looking very smooth reel i use for my light feeder /ledgering.
Weaknesses: None up till now with 6 months hammer but i have a feeling its match life may be over by the summer.
Overall: Pleased very nice looking reel for the money. Feels nice - lovely and smooth.
Performance
80%
Quality
80%
Value
100%
Overall Rating
87%
MY REVIEW
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