John Baker reel

[Minnow]

It looks like Baker is coming out with the reel.

What do you guys think of these reels?

MrBill and GS it's time to get you a new toys

[mcgolfer]

looks like a cross between a penn and an avet. what kind of pricing?...rick

[MrBill]

Yea, I saw that last night. I always check the weekly specials Sunday night. GS saw this reel as a prototype at the Fred Hall show in Calf. He really liked John Baker. I've been looking at the new 30 and 50 topless Accurates. This Baker reel comes in three sizes. I would only consider the 12 with lugs. I think they are priced very well considering the quality that he has put into the reels. By the way, I tried to buy a gorilla 12 the other day but was one hour late. I remember that you (minnow) did a review on one a while back. If I would have bought it, I would have replace that tiny red handle in a heartbeat.

Speaking of handles, I still haven't a guy that I am happy with to turn my knobs. I'm thinking of buying a CNC lathe and do them myself. I got outbid last night on ebay in the last second on a nice one. I do like the shape of the Baker knobs. I'm sure they are to small for me, but the shape looks interesting.

Here's more poop on the baker reels. I think they will sell well as they aren't very expensive for what you get.

Here are the particulars:

-Patent pending toggle switch for high to low gear
-Gear Ratios - 5:1 high and 2:1 low
-Double disc drag system capable of 40#'s of pressure @ full!
-Grade 5 Stainless Shielded SAPPORO Japanese Bearings (not Chinese...)
-Heat treated stainless steel gears, cam and pinion shaft
-14 Point Double Dog anti-reverse
-Proprietary Carbon Fiber U.S. made drag washers for smoothness and heat dissipation
-6061-T6 aluminum construction on frame, spool, sideplate and clamp
-All exterior components are hand polished, both stainless and almuminum
-Lever drag control with finite notches on sideplate to eliminate lever arm movement from boat vibration
-Big Game style clicker
-Precision ground stainless steel friction plate with minimum 32 Rockwell hardness for high loads and consistenly smooth drag performance at all ranges
-Easy 5 screw takedown for maintenance
-Proudly designed, manufactured and assembled in the U.S.A.

The reels come in an etched "clear pine" wooden box manufactured at Baker's factory. The reels are individually serial numbered. The 4 and 6 do not use lugs, the 12 comes with and without lugs.

Model Weight Capacity Price
JB 4 30 ounces 350 yds hollow Spectra $439
JB 6 33 ounces 450 yds Spectra $459
JB 12 36 ounces 550 yds Spectra $479

[Bazztex]

MrBill

I see the JB 12 is listed to hold 550 Yds of Spectra..

any Idea as to what test line??

I like the looks of the reel and have always appreciated Baker's fine Frames and custom end plate mill work. You know it's quality with his name on it.

Bazz

[MrBill]

Bazztex,
The 12 holds 550 yards of 80# JB. I plan on putting it on a rod Txseadog is making for me. It should be ready any day. It's a 600 gram OTI blank. Fuji MNSG guides and an aftco aluminum black and gold reel seat. Should be a nice setup.

Here's a picture of the guts of the John Baker reel. Looks to be a Delrin handle. That will be replaced with a custom Aluminun knob that will fit my hands.

[lite-liner]

MrBill: on that handle, I've got a couple old Hurst T-handles.
Perhaps I could lighten one up a little & see if you like it?
I can also re-locate the attachment point a little farther up,
if nec.
I remember you saying you liked it, just too heavy.
LMK
-Brian

[SkeeterRonnie]

nah Brian.. the Hurst shifter looked like a grape in a monkeys grip!!!

[SkeeterRonnie]

I really wish youy guys wouldnt put these thoughts in my head!! NOW I WANT ONE!!!

[MrBill]

Originally Posted by lite-liner

MrBill: on that handle, I've got a couple old Hurst T-handles.
Perhaps I could lighten one up a little & see if you like it?
I can also re-locate the attachment point a little farther up,
if nec.
I remember you saying you liked it, just too heavy.
LMK
-Brian

Already thought of that Hurst handle a few weeks ago. . I don't mind the weight, its just not made for a manly man. To small. By the way, I ordered the John Baker 12 with lugs today. Won't be ready for another 2 weeks.

[SkeeterRonnie]

think MrBill was compared to "Shrek" after the first posting of the above pictures..