The
Quantum Energy PT: See how this refreshing redesigned reel compares (continued)
Drag:
With the increase
size of the main gear, you would expect larger drag washers but that’s not the
case with the Energy PT. The drag, with a clicking drag star, is identical to
the older model which is plenty for anglers fishing for bass and other
freshwater game. Our new Energy PT produced a hefty 8.81 pounds of force which
is enough to handle any bass and more. We also tested the smoothness of the drag
system, and like before, the ceramic drag system starts and stays smooth through
all pressure ranges. On the water we tested it on some Fall season stripers that
hit and run hard when initially hooked. After hooking many schoolie sized
striped bass up to 18 pounds, we are happy with the drag’s capabilities.
Verdict: No change

Above are the gears and drag
washers from the new and old Energy PT. The larger gear is from the 2006 Energy
PT
Ergonomics:
So how ergonomic is
the latest Energy PT? We liked the feel of the 2005 and older model reel when we
had it in our hands, especially when palming the reel during bass fishing. The
2006 Quantum Energy PT feels the same if not better with its new frame. The reel
fits nicely and sits right as we palm it. There is one thing though that we
would like to see changed. The weight of the new Energy PT is 9.5 ounces
whereas the 2005 Energy PT comes in at 9.2 ounces and the X-Metal weighing 9.6
ounces. Why this increase? We looked into this further in our lab by dissecting
both reels. We measured the size and weight of the obvious major components that
amounted for some of the difference. The increased main gear is one that added
more weight to the E760PT. Also, because of the enlarged gear, the gear housing
had to be increased in size as well which is obvious when looking at the reel.
In addition the handle is now a cold-forged one-piece capless screw-on with
larger and more ergonomic knobs whereas the old one has a drilled handle to
reduce weight. Lastly, going from a five bearing system to seven added to the
overall increase in weight as well. It seems like that Quantum wanted to enhance
the performance of the other areas, but in return sacrificed the overall weight.
Verdict: They got it half right

Though new in
overall profile the reel still palms nicely. Also the new handle sports larger more ergonomic knobs
Durability:
The E600PT and
E750PT both have Quantum’s scratch-resistant vacuum deposition coating, but the
base composition is different. The new Energy PT makes use of titanium vacuum
deposition coating which provide a tougher outer layer to keep it from scuffs
and other damage. After using the reel for over one month we haven’t experienced
any damage to the coating or any other components. The one piece forged handle
is absolutely solid and the other components seem to have held up to our tests.
Verdict: They got it right

The guts of
the 2006 and 2005 Energy PT baitcasting reel
Price:
Usually when a reel is
redesigned it is because they want to change something that’ll add value to it
such as increase in performance or implementing newer technological mechanisms,
which in turn means a jump in price. How big of a jump will vary between
manufacturers. Take for example the Shimano Curado and Chronarch. Those had an
enormous price difference between the old and new models. Quantum did right with
the Energy PT which received some improvements yet still kept the price
reasonable. The suggested retail price of the old model was $159.95 whereas the
new 2006 E760PT received only a twenty dollar increase, coming in at a MAP of
$179.95. Verdict: They got it right

The Energy remains a great bass reel but can be used
for other species of fish where the souped up gearing should really come in
handy