Shimano Baitrunner 6500B vs 6000D

[NoWorries]

I have 2 of the older model 6500B baitrunners.They are discontinued. You may find some new ones around but have not been around for a few years. They are workhorse reels and have served me well for many seasons. The newer model D series has more bearings and is more expensive. I have not used it. Not 100% percent on this.

[MrAC1980]

Decisions decisions lol. I'm leaning towards a new 6000d.

[stevejordan]

the older one clicks louder

[Gerry Zagorski]

Not sure this will help you Marc but I have the 8000D... I had the earlier Shimano Bait Runners 3500 and 4500 reels and they were troublesome. Sticky bails, bad anti reverse gears. Took them in for servicing a few times but the problems persisted so I got sour on them.

Wife bought me the 8000d as a surprise present and it is vastly improved over the older bait runners. I really like the new design. They are beefed up, more bearings and the 8000d has a maintainence port on it so you don't have to take the side plate totally off to lube inside.

Had it for 2 years now and as far as spinners, it's my go to.

[MrAC1980]

Thanks Gerry! And btw it's MrAC to you! LoL! (Anthony).
Got my eye out for a 6000D!

[Badreddog]

I checked out the bait runners at the Somerset show at the Shimano booth. I got sold on the 6000. I have 3500 and a 4500 bait runners. Both still work well after 20 years of fishing. But I got a new rod that should get a new reel. Does anyone know if the handle from the 6000 fits the 4000. The 4000 is better for my new rod.

[CancunPete]

MrAC...used the 6000 for sailfish in Mexico and it holds up really well ...Nice to have the over sized handle too......I have one set up on a Star rod .....Come on down to the shop ....Will let you try it out ...Pete