John Baker 12

[MrBill]

The John Baker reel finally arrived after a long wait. From what I understand, this is the first production run. It has been field tested numerous times. It comes with a wood box. (Period). It has no instructions, no schematic, no oil, no wrench, no warranty card. It came with some foam on the bottom of the box and some bubble wrap on the top.

The finish is a nice light gold anodized aluminum. The markings or etching of the JB12 is very light. Not deeply engraved. The knob is made of delrin. It has a nice feel to it. It also has lugs which are angled back toward the angler unlike the common top of the reel. This is a topless reel, giving you access to the line.

The main reason I bought this reel is because I was under the impression that you could shift the 2 speed with your thumb without your hand leaving the handle. You have to pull out and twist the shift knob to change gears. I have no idea how you can tell which gear you are in without cranking the handle. I don't like the shifting knob or the way it works. It also feels loose and wobbly.

The clicker is hard to get to if you have big fingers. I have a big problem. Others many not. It also is spring loaded and you have to pull out and twist to go in and out of the click mode.

The handle is loose. I have about 1/2 inch of play in the crank, back crank. It's as if someone machined the handle to big on the shaft. The handle arm looks strong but it feels funny being loose.

The drag preset knob is located like most others. This one is loose. It doesn't turn evenly when adjusting. Like a wobbly wheel on a bend shaft. Maybe something is wrong with one.

As far as drag, it feels smooth, but I'm afraid to load it up with line as I don't know if I have any warranty. I have no idea of the line capacity, drag capability or anything else because it comes with no information what so ever. I have taken some pictures next to other reels to give you an idea of the size. It's about the size of a Accurate 665W.

Keep reading this thread as I will continure to update pictures and facts about this reel. (Last sentence added on 12/31/07)

[MrBill]

more pics

[MrBill]

more

[MrBill]

more.

[STx Fisherman]

Does it come in red?

[Grescobia]

Mr. Bill,Thanks for the great pictorial report ,I guess the big question of whether the reel is worth the $ will be answered when you catch some tuna with it. I am trying to make a decision of either the accurate 665 or the JB Your opinion is appreciated ----John

[DeepBlueGulf]

Thanks for the pictures and review Mr. Bill.

Tom - DBG

[jaredchasteen]

which one of the six is the best.

[SkeeterRonnie]

if the accurate had harness lugs, the decision would be easy for me. I dont like the get strapped brackets.. they get in the way. My noodle sized arms cant sustain 25# of drag for an hour...

[gman]

So what is your final take on it MR Bill? I expected everyone to drool over it after the announcement. I think its cheap of them not to include instructions, lube, schematics etc

I love the 665/2speed, if i only had lugs as skeeterronnie said ...it would be perfect