Casting Range: This is where the Tatula Type R should distinguish itself from that of the standard Tatula. The Type R benefits from a much lighter spool weighing in at 16.17 grams versus 18 grams for the standard Tatula. All this is achieved from a mere change in materials. Given this weight difference, theoretically, the Type R should be able to cast lighter weight lures than the standard model.

The Type R comes with a much lighter spool - 16.17 grams versus 18 grams on the original.

Thing is, we were already able to cast baits down to one eighth of an ounce with the standard Tatula. So how low can the Type R go? Well, we attempted to go lower with the Type R respooling it with 10lb Sunline Super Natural mono and matching it with a Phenix PHX-682L in the parking lot of TT HQ. While the lower end threshold still seems to be an eighth of an ounce with the Type R, this weight was easier to cast with this reel than the original Tatula. It was a marginal difference and we're unconvinced we'd be able to tell out on the water in real world fishing conditions.

Even with that lighter spool our attempts to establish a difference in casting performance were inconclusive.

Brakes: Brake adjustments on the Tatula Type R are the same as that of the standard model via an external dial numbered from one to twenty (1 - 20). There are no discernible differences to report here in terms of brake adjustment and sensitivity.

Two bearings under each knob would have been a nice upgrade, but the Type R is the same as the original with one bearing and one bushing.

Features: The check list of features on the Tatula Type R are the same as that of the standard Tatula namely an external brake adjustment dial, bushings in place of bearings on the levelwind, one bearing and one bushing under each knob on the handle, a micro click enabled dragstar, no reel cover, and a small vial of oil in the box.

Design & Ergonomics: Weight differential in the two reels is also very minimal. For a $200 reel, the Tatula Type R has an acceptable overall weight but not anything extraordinary or sought after. I really enjoy the handle length on this reel, the knobs are comfortable and palming is just average. Ease of breakdown of this reel is the same as the original version.

Application: Given the lighter spool on this reel one might expect that either this reel would be better in finesse applications than the original or able to cast further than the original. Lighter spools equate to faster startup and don't necessarily mean better casting distance but do usually equate to the ability to cast lighter baits than normal.

There's also no bearing to support the levelwind worm gear.

The Tatula Type R demonstrated some of that ability to cast lighter baits but not enough to where we felt it would translate to a real world application given the original can already comfortably cast baits down to one eighth of an ounce. As such, in our tests, we're unconvinced that the Type R shows any greater utility than the standard Tatula reel.