just dont look at the price tag and say why so x y z price yada yada..
different applications, different purposes.
its like what DitchWizard said. you guys would drop $500+ for a aluminum hand kite line winder. whats the issue with something with gears and drag? haha
so you basically pay for the quality, durability, also peace of mind.
if you have a PB or prize fish on the end of the line.. the reel has a much less chance for failure.
rods can break, you can still get the fish in. but if the reel breaks, your really screwed.
im not saying these reels dont occasionally break either, they do. but will hold up a hell of a beating before doing so.
my experience comes from the fact, i do own several of these expensive reels,, stellas, saltigas, accurates, jigging master.
and i beat them silly whenever i get a chance, land fish quickly and efficiently. none of that noodle rod, take my time playing him out crap.
try taking your time with a 75lb++ tuna on the line, you will tire before it will.
thats a pic of my 16k Stella, i mainly use for topwater SW fishing; amberjacks, tuna, and other large aggressive game.
and its drag runs smooth consistently into the 40lb + range (all day long without problems) and tested it to about ~57lb.
i dont run it at 57 lockdown, something will definitely break . (measured on a scale)
a cheaper reel wont even consistently push out 15lbs without breaking down eventually.
wont be as smooth and easy turning (fluid), wont be as durable overtime.
not to mention,, the sheer power as you crank the handle. thats something a cheaper reel cannot do.
go to a store, and try the reels. youll understand what i mean if you physically try them.
eventually youll understand why the price difference is so great.
