Originally Posted by hartattack (Post 587794)

Both the Daiwa Ballistic and the Shimano Vanford use high density carbon composite reel frames. Daiwa's Zaion-V material and Shimano's Ci4+ are known to be strong, lightweight and corrosion resistant. Both reels use aluminum gears. They are very similar reels and your choice may come down to preferred gear ratios. When paired with today's nano carbon rods, it's mind boggling that these setups can weigh so little and be so strong. I was previously leary of these new-age materials but they are NOT flimsy at all....

Originally Posted by Jigman13 (Post 587817)

You can't compare a BG to a Ballistic and Vanford. Two completely different price points and levels of quality.

Comparing a ballistic vs a vanford is more realistic. Don't get me wrong, the BG is a nice reel. The ballistics and vanfords are a step or two above...