which abu conv

[eelman]

A reel I loved and wish I could get my hands on again were the ABU black max series, no longer made but can still be found on ebay...They had the cross X pattern of laying the line on the spool that would be great for braid and they casted very sweet! However they were still problematic like all abu's for the most part and needed constant maintainence to keep them in good working order. Even with all the headaches I loved that reel.

I know this has nothing to do with your specifi question, just an abservation...I know there are plenty of 6500s out there being used with braid so go for one of those...But my top choice would be the Cal-400.....

[numbskull]

A 7000 series sounds too heavy for the rods you own. Go with a 6500 with a levelwind. Plugging with braid tends to saw your thumb on non-levelwind reels.

[BigBo]

A 6500 CS Pro Rocket is probably your best bang for the buck to do what you want it to do.

[Fishpart]

65oo Trophy Series, come with bearing level windand power handle, both of which are nice additions.

[gone fishin]

6500 series - any one of the series will do for a beginner. Leave the level wind as you will appreciate it after dark.

Just as a footnote - removing the levelwind from the reel is not a good idea as the reel frame will rack under the pressure of a large catch. If do not want a levelwind, buy the reel without it right from the start.

[Stewie]

I'd say start with a levelwind. Your second, or twentieth Abu ought to be a CT(nonlevelwind) reel. Any 6500 will be sweet for braid. If you plan to use 17lb or heavier mono, go with a 7000.