multiplier reel level-wind or not: casting implications?

greetings - trying to decide on whether a level-wind on a 6500 CT sports mag is something to consider or leave out.

experience: to date, i've always used ABU Ambassadeurs with level winds (6000, 6000c, 6500C, 7000, 7000C) - and now i'm interested in the sports mag 6500 CT. I've seen them with and withOUT the level wind.

So the question is, in terms of casting performance (assuming the technique is equal), does the level-wind detract from distance? Or does the level-wound line balance out the mechanics of the drag created by the line-spreader?

I guess the other thing I need to bear in mind is the need to spread the line with your finger on the level-windless version - and what happens when you forget - e.g., with a fish on, etc....

Thoughts welcome. Is there any conclusive evidence on the relative casting performances of the same multiplier reel with/out level-winds?

well, when you cast the spool will slow down quicker with the levelwind as it has to drive it from side to side creating drag on the spool.

with the line lay, take it easy at first then when after a while it will become second nature.i would reccomend fishing on beaches with it so you dont have to worry about bringing the fish up quickly.

The big problem with a level wind is you can't get the thumb fully over the spool when casting. It can be hard enough to hold onto a spool pendulumn casting with a non-level wind spool after baiting up cold hands. Level winds are designed for lower diameter lure fishing and will not give good line lay. They are also not designed to have a large shock leader knot. If your really worried about line lay just use a Fixed spool.

Line lay with a CT reel (theres no such thing as a level wind ct reel as this is the distinguishing lettering on the abu product line) becomes second nature. After a large fish you should always carry out a relaxed cast to relay the line to avoid birdies. This is also true when carrying out the first cast to wet the line.

Donagh

(theres no such thing as a level wind ct reel as this is the distinguishing lettering on the abu product line) Donagh

Hhhmmmmm, I see your point. Have I been sold a pig-in-a-poke...

... or more likely a splice of a CS and a CT (sorry for terrible camera pic - but it does say 6500 CT Sports Mag and it's azure blue)... something not quite right here...

Comments welcome...[img]http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1109/1459217821_63582b5ec1.jpg[/img]

was it brand new? if so, go back to the shop and get them to change it to a genuine ct reel.

that is false advertising selling you a ct reel that is actually cs :shock: :?

not brand new, but a trip back to the shop is on the cards for tomorrow morning...

Hi,

A level wind mechanism is driven by the spool and as such acts as a brake, slowing the spool and reducing distance. As Alex has already sid another problem with a level wind is the cross bar at the top of the cage which prevents you from getting a secure grip on the spool when casting.

A CS ( level wind ) multiplier can be used for short range work or with a bass rod as the lighter leads create less of a problem with gripping the spool.

Laying the line on the reel manually with a CT reel is easy once you have done it a few times, you will be surprised how quickly you will pick it up.

Hope this helps

Lee

Twas me that said about getting your tumb over. Cages for the 6500 can be swapped to make the reel level wind or non-level wind. It's likely some converted this CT reel to be level wind. Why is beyond me.

Donagh

Problem with reel sorted - thanks to the lads in Southside Angling in Dublin for sorting me out with a brand new reel (a CT er, without the level-wind) at a very reasonable upgrade price and great service.

Beats me why anyone would want to splice a CS and CT. Naturally of course, the level-wind didn't work either as the gearing was missing. So there's a lesson to all when taking in or buying second-hand stuff... take a closer look at the level-wind...

Now, to try it out...

Sorry Donagh :oops:

Lee