So you are interested in Penn warfare reels. This article contains everything you need and we always go in depth as we tested this reels.
First of all, you should know that all Penn reels are engineered with high-quality and high performance materials. Overall, these reels follow two significant values which you can find both in the Penn Level Wind and Penn Star Drag models.
Innovation and Versatility.
Otto Henze founded the company 86 years ago and since then, they managed to become the number one choice for every angler. Otto left Germany and traveled to the US where his dream came true, the Penn Fishing Tackle Company (1932). They put value on the material and they know that each material has pros and cons.
At this point, we can assume that they are a great buy for every angler in the world. You get Penn only once as it lasts a lifetime.
There is no real angler who has not any vintage penn reels in his garage!
As you already know, there are two versions available, the level wind reel and the star drag reel. The level wind has 12 models and the star drag only 2.
Drag Star or Level Wind?
You are between getting the Penn Warfare Star Drag or the Penn Warfare Level Drag, but it would be better to choose the version first. Overall, it depends on the fishing style and target fish.
As already mentioned, with a drag star model you cannot see how much drag you have applied. With a level drag you can adjust the drag. Another difference is that level wind models utilize a line guide which moves while you retrieve line.
These are the core differences between these two models. If you are after big size fish, you should choose the level drag version.
On the other hand, small- to medium- sized fish can be pursued with the Penn Warfare Drag Star models.
So, many people would think that level wind reels are better than star drag reels, but this is not correct. Each version has pros and downfalls. A level wind model might be more durable, but you can accidentally release the drags and eventually lose your fish.
Lastly, it would be good to mention that level wind version are better for expert fishermen.
Penn Warfare Reels: Models and Specifications
These two models have many features in common, but there are several differences in the specs.
Penn Warfare Star Drag Models
It is considered to be the most affordable option for the occasional angler. It is able to support 280 yards of 20 pound line and the max drag is 15lbs. In the next sections we will analyze some further characteristics.
Obviously, you will see that the combination of quality materials with premium design, makes this reel a must-have item for every angler.
On the other hand, if we take a closer look at the penn warfare 30 models, we can see that the max drag remains the same (15lbs) but there is a small difference in the monofilament and braided line capacity.
Penn Warfare Level Wind Models
As you already know there is a fishing line counter guide which is also the main characteristic. We would like to underline the fact that the models (Reel size 30) utilize 3.9:1 gear ration. Consequently, we have a different mono and braided line capacity.
Penn Warfare Reels: Best Key Features
Now we are going to explain the common features which you can find in both versions.
- HT-100 Carbon Fiber Washers
No matter how much pressure the fish applies on the drags, they will not let you down! The washers are made of carbon fiber and they use a special oil to reduce friction. It can run more than 25 miles of line without any issues.
You should know that the drag system is the most important part of the reel. Penn warfare reels have an outstanding performance thanks to the special drag system construction and this is why many people choose thus brand.
- Light like a feather thanks to the graphite sideplates and frame
Another thing that you should take into consideration is the weight. It goes without saying that you cannot fish with a heavy reel. It must be lightweight and ergonomic as you will spend many hours on the water.
Many people think that Penn uses graphite and aluminum spools just to bring the cost down. In fact, these materials are extremely lightweight and they are almost rust-free and saltwater safe.
- No back-play
When you are setting the hook, you don’t need back play and that’s the last feature we would like to mention. In a few words, instant anti-reverse bearing does not allow the handle to go backwards.
- Line Capacity Rings
It is perfect to know how much line is left on the spool and the only way to check it are the line capacity rings. Both models, the penn warfare star drag and penn warfare level wind have these special rings.
It goes without saying that if you run out of line, you will lose the fish.
When you have a big fish on the hook, you should definitely know if you have a full spool or 1/3rds.
Final Verdict
Regardless of the model, both reels are manufactured by Penn which means that they offer high-performance and innovation. If we could carefully examine the specs and features and compare them with other reels, we would realize that the detail makes the difference.
If you are going to invest money in a conventional reel, the Penn Warfare Reels should be your next choice. The trickiest part is to choose between the models.
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