Introduction: KastKing has long been known for delivering solid reels at reasonable prices, but the company is now proving it can compete well beyond the budget category. At this year's ICAST, KastKing unveiled the Mg-Ti Elite, a hybrid magnesium and titanium baitcaster that showcases the company's growing focus on premium materials and innovative engineering.

KastKing made a big splash at the show with their Mg-Ti Elite Baitcaster

Magnesium and Titanium: The headline feature of the Mg-Ti Elite is its claim to the world's first true titanium spool in a baitcasting reel. Titanium is over twice as strong as aluminum and more than three times as hard, allowing KastKing to build an ultra-light yet durable spool. This titanium spool has a paper-thin 0.35mm wall and weighs just 6.9 grams, enabling extremely low startup inertia for effortless casting. It's rated to handle a wide range of lure weights, from just 1.7 grams up to 30 grams.

The Mg-Ti Elite features a Magnesium frame and a Titanium spool
 

Controlling that spool is KastKing's new Halo Vortex Braking System, a magnetic system built around a twelve-magnet ring. This self-adjusting brake applies strong initial resistance to tame the cast at high speeds and automatically tapers off as the spool slows. By placing the core braking components in the non-handle sideplate rather than the spool, KastKing keeps the titanium spool as light as possible, helping maximize casting distance and minimize backlash.

A look at the Vortex Magnesium Braking System housed within the non-handle sideplate. This plate normally would flip open providing easy access to the spool

The reel's frame is crafted from lightweight magnesium alloy, complemented by TiCon carbon fiber side covers that offer more strength than standard carbon while staying lighter than aluminum. Inside, the reel packs 9+1 double-shielded bearings plus two high-performance EZO bearings for smooth operation. Despite its featherweight build, just five ounces, the Mg-Ti Elite doesn't sacrifice power, thanks to precision-cut brass gearing.

Though very light we were surprised to find the gearing to be brass versus aluminum

Another interesting design detail is the over-engineered star drag, which uses a mix of premium materials and features extra-long, thin, sculpted arms for easy, one-handed adjustments during the fight.

A carbon fiber handle and a very large drag star

The star drag is extra large for easy quick access

When I cranked on the reel at ICAST, it felt very smooth, among the best I've experienced from KastKing to date. The compact 39mm low-profile frame fits comfortably in the palm, and the deep spool provides the line capacity needed for big baits and power techniques while still remaining finesse friendly thanks to the spool's low mass and refined braking.

Rotate the dial to adjust the casting brake force

Overall, the Mg-Ti Elite looks like another step forward for KastKing. It feels like a true hybrid reel - strong, light, and versatile. With its use of exotic materials, premium features, and a $299.99 price point, it has the potential to punch well above its weight and feels like it belongs in a higher bracket.

Tate Cui, CEO of KastKing is also one of the company's lead designers and helped engineer the new Mg-Ti Elite

While the Mg-Ti Elite was KastKing's ICAST showstopper, the company also showcased its mainstream offerings that built its reputation for value. Among these were the Skeet Reese Icon reels, which are designed to deliver plenty of performance for just $99.99. These reels pair an aluminum frame with carbon fiber sideplates, KastKing's Automag dual braking system (magnetic and centrifugal), a carbon drag, and the signature bright yellow TPE knobs that Skeet Reese fans will recognize instantly.

The KastKing Icon baitcaster is a lot of reel for only $99.99

The Icon spinning reel is available in 2000 and 3000 sizes for only $99.99

Also back by popular demand is the wild cosmic colored Royale Legend Pro Series baitcaster that features a carbon fiber frame and side covers, a carbon drag, and a 11+1 stainless steel ball bearings for a lightweight package that weighs only 5.5 ounces.

The Royal Legend Pro's cosmic paint is certainly eye-catching

Both the Royale Legend Pro baitcaster and spinning reels are designed to be exceptional budget options that emphasize both performance and fun factor at a very reasonable sub $100 price

The Royal Legend Pro was specifically voted as a fan favorite by KastKing customers which ushered in the reel's return. It features the same wild cosmic color, 10+1 double shielded ball bearings, an aluminum gear, and CNC anodized aluminum spool. These Royale Legend Pro reels are aggressively priced at only $91.99 for the baitcaster and a starting price of $89.99 for the spinning reel for the smaller sizes.

The KastKing Mg-Ti Elite once again raises the bar for the brand

Quick Take: KastKing continues to deliver affordable gear for anglers but is now proving it can design and build reels that compete well into the high-performance market. With products like the Mg-Ti Elite, the company shows it can deliver genuine innovation and refinement at a price that undercuts many long-established reel competitors.