They are both really good reels. I have ALL Penn reels. 130's 80's 50's 30's and 16's and have never had a problem with them. Some are used very hard day in and day out. Shimanos ARE smoother. Both drag systems are good again the Shimanos are smoother. The tolerances of shimano are tighter. Penn 975 vs Calcutta 400. Both serve the purpose well but the Calcutta is smoother and tighter. the same can be said for their offshore reels. BUT when you need parts or service Penn is the way and only way to go because they are readily available. The new vsw and vsx series are great from Penn. If I was to replace all my reels ( Finacially I hope never to have too) I'd go with Accurate but HUGE $$$$. What it really boils down to is personal preference of manufacturers. BTW- All my surf gear is Shimano.
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