Up Close: Daiwa TDX Reels - 28/01/2010
We’ve been big fans of Daiwa’s TDR reels for a couple of years now, so when we heard that the company had developed a new and slightly more expensive range we were keen to find out if they were any better.
Now that we’ve put these new TDX models through their paces we can tell you that yes, they certainly are!
The design features of these two reels are, quite simply, superb and they take open-face reels to another level in terms of performance. For starters, the black and silver finish looks superb. There’s a push-button spool that still delivers top-end front-drag performance and a High Impact ‘HIP’ line clip, which only previously featured on the best-selling Basiair specimen carp reel. Then there’s a waterproof drag system that was developed for the top-end Certate match reel and a machine-cut spool that’s designed to take just the right amount of line for all match situations.
The reels come in two sizes, TDX 2508 and TDX 3012, and are available with single or double handles and come with a spare spool. They house seven bearings, four CRBB and three BB, and the precision-made Digigear and Advanced Locomotive Winding produce remarkably high and smooth winding power that match anglers now expect from top-end Daiwa reels.
Other features include an AirBail bail arm with a Twistbuster II roller, infinite anti-reverse and a Lifetime Bail spring. Even the handle has been reconsidered, with the creation of contoured grips made from high-density EVA. This hardened foam offers excellent grip even when wet and continues to rotate freely even under heavy loading. At £235 and £250 respectively these reels aren’t cheap, but neither are Aston Martins and Porsches and, in terms of top-end reel quality, these new reels are just that!
Verdict
We thought the TDRs were brilliant – these reels are even better!
Prices
- TDX 2508 £235
- TDX 2508D (double handle) £235
- TDX 3012 £250
- TDX 3012D (double handle) £250
