Penn Fathom or Avet?

[Virginiaducks]

I'm in the process of putting together a heavier bottom fishing set up. I'm using a fish poison blackfish rod and Avet SX for most of my bottom fishing. It seems to do very well with 40lb braid and up to about 8 ounces. I'd like something I can fish with a little more weight, and in deeper water. I think I have the rod figured out, but I could use some advice on the reel. I really like my Avet SX and planned to buy an MXL, but the Penn fathom lever drag has caught my attention. It seems to get good reviews, is quite a bit cheaper, and has a 33lb drag. The Avet ,however looks better, is made in the US, and has worked well for me in the past. Anyone care to share an opinion on those two? ( another choice is a Maxell Ocean Max, it cost a few dollars more and seems like it might be overkill for bottom fishing, even in deep water.)