View Single Post
Old 12-21-2008, 11:07 AM   #4
Mike P
Jiggin' Leper Lawyer
iTrader: (0)
 
Mike P's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: 61° 30′ 0″ N, 23° 46′ 0″ E
Posts: 8,158
The idea behind right side crank on a "left handed" spinning reel is, you don't have to switch hands to retrieve after the cast.

With conventionals, it's more a matter of tradition. Originally, they were direct drive (1:1 retrieve) reels. Even after they started using "multiplier" gearing, they were still pretty slow, so they were made for an angler to reel with his dominant hand, for a faster retrieve. Same reason that most fly reels come set-up for right hand cranking.

On a spinning reel, the handle moves in a much wider arc, so cranking is easier with your off hand. You use more wrist on a conventional, while with a spinner, you can use the muscles of your forearm more.

Wise men speak because they have something to say; Fools, because they have to say something.
Mike P is offline   Reply With Quote