2009 Revo STX - Review

[CamG]

Well, after putting this reel through the paces for two solid days catching smallies, I have my own review.

I'll compare this to the reel models that I currently own (Curado 201Bs, Curado Original SF, Curado 101Bs, BPS Extremes, and a BPS Pro Qualifier.

Casting Distance:

Curado 201B, 101B > A+ (these reels just can't be beat in this category)
Curado SF > B+
Pro Qualifier > B
Revo STX > B
BPS Extreme > B-

Overall smoothness of the retrieve:

Pro Qualifier > A
Curado(s) > B
Revo STX > B
BPS Extreme > B

Drag

Revo STX > A+ (the very best feature on this reel)
Curado(s) > B+
Pro Qualifier > B
BPS Extreme > B

Feel/Comfort

Curado(s) > A+ (Shimano has the most comfortable reels ever made IMHO)
Pro Qualifier > A+
BPS Extreme > A
Revo STX > D - I'll be wondering forever why they decided to have the magnetic brake protruding from the side plate.

Construction

Curado(s) > A+
Pro Qualifier > A+
BPS Extreme > A
Revo STX > A - I'll will give it an A just because it seems solid, even though it should be knocked down a little because the thumbbar on the one I got has a very rough edge on the one closest to the spool.

Overview -

IMHO, this is not a $199 reel. Even at the $119.00 price I paid, I think it's a little high. If I had it to do over again, I would have just got another Pro Qualifier, or a Shimano Citica. I will probably just put this one back in the box, and keep it in my boat for a backup.

I said 8 years ago that I'd never own another Abu. I should have stuck to my guns I guess.