Hey Guys,

My son wants to get a 6000 with his xmas money to start throwing conventional. Can someone spell out the difference on all the different models.

So many different ones, not sure what to get. Also ,where can you get parts to modify them for better drags ,etc. M and D's or any other sponsors? Are they easy to modify?

Thanks for the help.

Jeff

To try to tell you all the differences between the ABU models would take a whole page...if anyone really knows all the differences. Here's some simple answers...A CS after the model number (6500CS) indicates the reel is a level wind..a CT after it means the reel is not. A "00" in the model number indicates it's a right-hand retreive, an "01" indicates a left-hand model. A 6500-C3 model indicates it has 3 bearings (C3 meaning 3 bearings). 6000 series ABU's will hold 245 yds of 14 lb test. Prices will range from around $80.00 and up. You can't go wrong with a place like Cabelas. They have some good deals, like a 6500-C3 for $85.00. On the other hand, a place like Hatteras Outfitters (www.hatterasoutfitters.com) is an ABU owners heaven. The new ABU's come with their carbon matrix drags which are steps above the old drag systems.Stock bearings are fine to use, just put a drop or two of oil (I use 3-in-one) in each bearing and you'll be fine. Take alook at Cabelas and then go to Hatteras Outfitters and compare what you see...most of my toys come from Hatteras. Any other way I could help, shoot me a PM. Below are some of mine:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v175/patton39/mag_elite2.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v175/patton39/abus1.jpg

hi jeff, i've got a red abu 6500, i think it is a "trophy" series. straight out of the box no modifications - very smooth, handles large from the boat w/ no problems. it's a great fluke reel too. see you in the spring, paul

In the smaller sizes, 6000s and 5000s are bushing reels. Ball bearing reels are 6500s, 6600s, 5500s, etc.

x500 reels have push button free spool. x600 reels have a thumb bar.

Reels with C3, C4, CL and CS all have level winds. A reel without one will have CT as part of the model number.

That's about as simple as one can make it.

Thanks Bassnuts for the numbering/lettering info. Whats the difference between 6000 and 6500, size diff?

Thanks Paul, spring time can't come fast enough.

Ok, got it.

Thanks Mike

For value, I recommend the 6500 Trophy Series. Has the Pwer Handle (you'll get tired of the little handle in less than a tide) and a bearing level wind (slightly faster). The only places to buy one are M&D's, (PM Mikecc) or King Cove Outfitters, (PM DonM)....They are both sponsors..

For value, I recommend the 6500 Trophy Series. Has the Pwer Handle (you'll get tired of the little handle in less than a tide) and a bearing level wind (slightly faster). The only places to buy one are M&D's, (PM Mikecc) or King Cove Outfitters, (PM DonM)....They are both sponsors..

Yep - best bang for buck reel for a Striperaddict is the 6500TCST Trophy Striper. IN the $90 range and throw in an extra 5-10 for Smoothies / Extreme Smoothies and you have a real versatile reel...

Yeah, think I'll have him go with the bigger handle Trophy. Thanks for the help guys.

Jeff