My Review: Okuma Metaloid - California Fishing

DementedFish · 05-29-2005, 04:26 PM

Introduction

I currently own two Okuma Metaloids, and I have to say, these are the best reels for the money I own. For only $69.99, you get high quality components found in other reels that can retail for up to $300! This reel is definitely worth the money, but why? What makes this reel outstanding?

Design (physical appearance properties)

Take a good look at the Metaloid. It is, by far, one of the most attractive reels I have ever seen. It is machined from high quality stock aluminum and contains a titanium coated spool lip. This reel can easily hold up to corrosion from salt, dirt, and water with the special protection of these properties, at least from my experience.

Anatomy and Properties

Beneath its beautiful gold and silver appearance, the Metaloid has many high quality components. The EDS (extra drag system) has a waterproof seal, and has a 30% larger drag which creates incredible stopping power, and really lets you put pressure on fish. It is by far, one of the best and smoothest drag systems I have ever experienced on a reel.

The Metaloid also contains a Quick-Set anti-reverse system which allows solid hook sets, and eliminates back play. When you have the pleasure of holding a Metaloid in your hand, you'll instantly realize that this reel is tough and strong, and will hold up to almost anything. This reel's power should not be underestimated.

Another property which makes this reel so superior is its bearing system. With NINE high quality SUS sealed ball bearings to ensure smoothness, and a one-way roller bearing to reduce line twists, and create easier casting, this reel is one of the smoothest, and quietest spinning reels on the market. Give the handle one hard turn, the reel will keep on spinning and spinning without wobbling or shaking (thanks to the bearings and the rotor equalizing system).

Ergonomics

When the manufacturers at Okuma designed this reel, I'm sure they had the intention of making this reel as ergonomically suited as they could to satisfy the customers. Whatever they did, they sure did a good job, because just about everything on this reel is put together well to ensure comfort. The rubber handle is extremely comfortable, and does not get slippery when wet, and is designed to fit easily in your fingers.

Another aspect I like, is how everything is balanced with each other. On many reels, the top portion may overweight the rest of the reel, or the bail might be to thin to support the spool capacity. This reel was very well put together, and again, is very comfortable to fish with.

Conclusion

Overall, I think this is one of the best reels for the money you can possibly buy. My reels have seen many fishing trips, and still perform like the day I bought them. I would definetely consider aquring one of these for your tackle arsenal.

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sharkbait7 · 05-29-2005, 09:59 PM

i was reading another thread that was saying that the okuma are not that good. is this an exception?

cst · 05-29-2005, 10:02 PM

sean likesk all okumas

cst · 05-30-2005, 01:44 AM

some of the stuff doesnt make sense but still, it was a very good report. You had pictures of the reel and did a great job in writing what you think and making it clear to the reader. but i would have liked to see a Con section where you highlight the negative parts of the reel.

also bearings dont affect the casting at all on a spinning reel (since no part of the reel is spinning while you cast). but for the first ever Hookup Reviewm, it is very good.

DementedFish · 05-30-2005, 11:04 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cst

also bearings dont affect the casting at all on a spinning reel (since no part of the reel is spinning while you cast). but for the first ever Hookup Reviewm, it is very good.

Actually Chris I was refferring to the rollerbearing on the reel. Roller bearings on the reel reduce the amount of line twists, and allow the line to go better on the reel, so therefore, the line will come off easier during casting, which will make easier casting.

DementedFish · 05-30-2005, 11:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cst

sean likesk all okumas

Actually, thats not true. I don't think the avenger is all that great of a reel. The handle isn't put on that well, the drag could be better, and a couple of other things. However, one feature I like about the Avenger is that it has a button on the handle that allows it to fold up.

cst · 05-30-2005, 11:08 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DementedFish

Actually Chris I was refferring to the rollerbearing on the reel. Roller bearings on the reel reduce the amount of line twists, and allow the line to go better on the reel, so therefore, the line will come off easier during casting, which will make easier casting.

sean, let me steal a quote from you.

Cool Dog

well i never thought of it that way, thanks for clearing that up.

DementedFish · 05-30-2005, 11:09 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by sharkbait7

i was reading another thread that was saying that the okuma are not that good. is this an exception?

Sharkbait,

A couple of years ago, Okumas did suck. But you have to realize that okuma is a very new company. Companies like Shimano and Daiwa have been around for years, while Okuma hasnt been around for so long. Before the construction of the metaloid and their other newer reels, Okuma starting getting a bad reputation, and thats why a lot of people don't even bother to use them. Also, could you PM me where you saw that thread? I'd like to read it. Thanks.

Local Rookie · 05-31-2005, 01:33 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DementedFish

But you have to realize that okuma is a very new company.

Damn Sean, first of, nice pictures! Secondly, contrary to popular belief, Okuma has been around since 1987 as an OEM (orginal equipment manufacturer). It was just recently that they started branding their own products.

Anyway, in short some:

pros: Metaloid has outstanding casting capabilities, smooth retrieve, good drag system, attractive pricing and nice to look at.

Cons: heavier, and limited to one year warrantee.

PlatinumHooks · 06-02-2005, 03:18 PM

Very well written review Sean. Good Job.

luv2fsh · 06-02-2005, 07:55 PM

WHere can you get a metaloid and who makes it?

DementedFish · 06-02-2005, 08:03 PM

Okuma makes them and you can get them in almost any tackle store. Type in "okuma metaloid" on ebay and you'll get a whole bunch of listings.

DementedFish · 07-19-2005, 08:00 PM

Hey luv2fish, did ya ever buy that metaloid?

PlatinumHooks · 07-20-2005, 10:56 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DementedFish

Hey luv2fish, did ya ever buy that metaloid?

Hey Sean, did you ever buy an AVET???? I might have some good news for you.....I'll know this week

DementedFish · 07-20-2005, 11:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tony"PltnmHooks"Z.

Hey Sean, did you ever buy an AVET???? I might have some good news for you.....I'll know this week

No I haven't bought an Avet yet.