On December 1 Abel is introducing a new series of reels and matching rods that are lower priced than their standard series. Called the X-Stream series, the kits are available in 4 different configurations (3 different rod/reel sizes: 5-weight, 7-9-weight and 10-12-weight -- the fourth option is a click-drag 5-weight reel rather than the standard cork drag). You can also purchase the items separately. For example, the 7-8-9-weight reel is $370, as compared to the Big Game 3N Ported, which is $470. Together with the 8-weight rod the total package is $545. The rods have a lifetime warranty.
Talking to Steve Abel about how the reels are different, he said there were only 3 essential differences: first, he was able to design a port configuration that eliminated the need for a counterweight; second, the wood handle is replaced with Delrin; and third, the reel doesn't go through the final polishing of the higher priced reel. All reels are made of the same high-quality aluminum stock as his other reels.
I've put several Abel reels through many years of hard use (abuse?), and I'm glad to see Abel come out with reels and rods that are more "in reach" for the average angler.
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