Power: Similar to its two siblings, the G5 is available in four different gear ratios, so if power is what you seek, there is a 5.4:1 option in gear ratio. On the other hand, I fished the 7.1:1 and found it perfectly suitable for everything from vertical bait presentations to pulling some oversized wake baits. Even though they swim at or near the surface, the resistance of those wake baits lies somewhere between a mid-depth and deep diving crank. Vibrating jigs were a lot of fun on this reel as well and those can provide a modest amount of resistance. The 7.1:1 G5 variant had plenty of torque for all of them.

The G5 drag consists of one carbon matrix washer, two metal washers, two Teflon washers

Drag: Composition of the drag is where the G5 goes back to walking the line between its two siblings. Featuring the same 5-disc setup as the others, the composition of that drag in the G5 is two metal, two Teflon, and one carbon matrix washer. The max rating of the drag itself is consistent across all three reels at 14lbs. Operation of the G5's drag for me was relatively smooth. That difference in composition was not really discernible to me without taking the reel apart.

The Gravity G5 shares the nice, low seating position of its siblings

Design & Ergonomics: ARK Fishing's Gravity G5 reel, like its siblings, is a comfortable shape and size to fish for extended periods of time. The non-handle sideplate is identical to the G3, so there is a line weight indicator on this reel should you choose to use it.

The G5's handle and dragstar design

As mentioned earlier, the external brake dial on this reel is easier to use than the one on the G7. The handle knobs are more comfortable on this reel than the G3, so the G5 is really a nice compromise between the other two platforms all while presented in a kind of metallic, charcoal gray finish.

There's a bearing at the levelwind worm gear

Knobs are supported by one bushing and one bearing

Price & Applications: Priced at $179.99, perhaps the hardest obstacle for the G5 will be getting a foot on the casting deck of arguably, the most competitive price tier amongst casting reels.

Conclusion: In the Gravity G5, ARK Fishing International has taken the most sensible features from the other two platforms and presented them in their middle ground platform. To complete the journey, personally, I'd eliminate the line indicator. It's a nice thought, but in practice, there are gaps in the numbers so you may or may not be able to set it at the strength you want.

 
ARK Fishing International's Gravity G5 may be the best value out of the manufacturer's current selection of reels

At this price point, I just don't feel the feature is necessary. I'd rather have a clean looking non-handle sideplate with just the brake dial. Seems like a small, minor detail, but it is something that would elevate the G5's vibe. Otherwise, with the cost savings over the G7 and the improvements over the G3, the Gravity G5 hits a sweet spot and may really be the most practical value out of the bunch.

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