need advice on a good reel for tech diving.

[narcosis Junky]

Well Reef Scuba has discontinued their S.E.A.L rells. That really bites. So now what?
I'm thinking about the manta Sr. or maybe the Jr.
I'm also thinking about the innovative scuba dive reel if it has a drag system. It just sucks that Reef Scuba discontinued their S.E.A.L. reels. But I'm open for subjestions. I don't like free spools. I don't like reels that just have a lock knob. I like adjustable drag or a trigger system of some kink. I also like heavier line. ](*,) ](*,) ](*,) ](*,) ](*,) ](*,) ](*,) ](*,) ](*,) ](*,)

[John Rawlings]

I have used the Manta Jr. for a number of years and have been well pleased with it.

Several of my buddies use Salvo reels and they are also quite impressive.

After reading some glowing reviews on Rebreather World, I have ordered a new toy from Kent Tooling in the UK. Here's a link to their reel page:

http://www.divingproducts.co.uk/ratchet.html

I'm anxious to get it, use it, and feel how it works.

- John

[narcosis Junky]

I like what they have to offer. What was the price if I may ask and which one did you get?

[4ster]

Kent Tooling's ratchet reel is really a cut above all the others. Very ergonomic and built like there proverbial brick %&#* house. You can probably take 4 pounds of lead off your kit by carrying one.

They don't have a web based ordering system (or at least didn't when I purchased mine). You must fax or call in an order.

here was KT's email response to my inquiry, shipping is a BIG issue with these reels, a group buy might reduce shipping costs:
-------------------------
Thank you for your enquiry regarding our 75m narrow ratchet reel, is this holding in the right hand or winding with your right hand.

The cost of this item will be £93.00

What line colour do you require YELLOW or PINK

The cost for post & packing to the USA will be £55.00

This item will take about 5-10 working days as from payment

We do not have a distributor in the us as you can purchase direct from us, if you require any further information you can contact us on +44 0127 700015

We accept most major credit cards over the phone, I am afraid we do not accept American Express
--------------

Hope this helps

[narcosis Junky]

john I was wondering if you had to go through the same thing to get yours, and what is the dollar translation of all this?

[John Rawlings]

john I was wondering if you had to go through the same thing to get yours, and what is the dollar translation of all this?

Nope....working for ADM does have its advantages. My price was <ahem> "different".

Regarding the price conversions, here is the site that I normally use:

http://www.bankofcanada.ca/en/rates/exchform.html

Just type in the amount in the box provided, click on UK Pound to US Dollar, then click on convert.

In 4ster's scenario above:

93.00 UK Pounds = $181.64 US

55.00 UK pounds = $107.42 US

Total: $289.06 US

[narcosis Junky]

ouch!!!!!

[4ster]

Yup, it stung. It was my birthday present to myself. This is the first time I have admitted publicly how much I paid.

[narcosis Junky]

I wish I had known earlier, I would of had you order two and split the shipping. oh well!

[CaptnJack]

I have a Manta Jr. that I'm not using anymore. I've rarely used it (5-10x) and its just been sitting in the garage. I don't know what size line is on there off the top of my head, I'd guess #24. They run about $125 new so I'll sell it for $75 including the shipping to you in OR.

[narcosis Junky]

you got your self a deal. I will buy it from you.

[John Rawlings]

I just received my new reel from Kent Tooling.....Holy Cow! What a well-made piece of kit! (as the Brits would say!). It's heavy enough and sturdy enough that when not using it on a dive you could always completely clear out a drunken barroom brawl with it!

The ratchet mechanism seems flawless and seems to move effortlessly when released, which is done with a flick of your thumb. I'm looking forward to diving with it.

- John

[Phineas Gage]

Well John, now that you've had the reel for some time what's the verdict?
Worth the money? Does the ratcheting mechanism still work like new?