Introduction: Just when I thought I had
finally tested and written up my last Zillion article Daiwa introduced yet
another addition to what has become their most prolific baitcaster series. The
Type-R is designed to be the most sophisticated Zillion yet and is a natural
replacement for the Limited Edition Anniversary reel. The Type-R makes use of
some additional tuning components that increase both the performance and price
of this sleek new reel.
Impressions:
Through the last few years the Zillion series has quickly risen up to become the
workhorse series for Daiwa, yes there are cheaper reels in the company’s lineup
but none are quite as balanced as the Zillion reels when it comes to refinement,
performance, and overall value. These reels are employed by both weekend
warriors and pros alike, and for many fans of the original Daiwa TD-Z reels the
aluminum bodied Zillions represent the ideal everyday reel for the complete
range of freshwater applications.
A 911 Carrera S pulls up to the TT
Lab...
Daiwa
further expanded the original lineup with the introduction of the Zillion
Coastal 7.3 reel two seasons ago and last April when I concluded that write-up I
was sure I wouldn’t see another Zillion that was different enough to warrant yet
another review. At the 2010 Classic Daiwa teased attendees with talk that they
would release a new black finished reel.
...and out steps...
At the
time I speculated that this new reel might be a composite bodied baitcaster that
made use of the company’s Zaion construction, but shortly before ICAST the
company officially rolled out the Type-R. The very first reels were made
available at Tackle Warehouse and the limited quantity on hand quickly sold out.
...Ms. Casey to deliver our latest
test subject, the ultra-fast Zillion Type-R
We
didn’t get one of the initial reels and had to wait for stock to become
available, which was well after ICAST 2010. At that point we placed an order
from Tackle Warehouse and eagerly awaited the delivery of the Type-R. Was this
reel just a pimped up Zillion, or was there more to this reel than just fancy
cosmetic enhancements?
The Type-R is Daiwa's highest end
Zillion to date
Once
spooled with Daiwa Samurai braid Ms. Casey helped deliver the reel to the TT lab
for further inspection. It was only fitting that she transported the reel in a
fast car, this is the speed demon of the Zillion lineup after all. Like the
Coastal the Type-R features a 7.3 high speed retrieve ratio and is capable of
winding back a whopping 32 inches of line per handle turn.
The reel features the same basic
profile of the other Zillions but features souped up components
The
handle on the Type-R differs from all other Zillions and while it is still swept
in design it features a true carbon fiber construction, not some cheap carbon
finish but actual carbon weave which is sandwiched and cut. The reel features a
painted black finish which further separates the reel from the rest of the
series. On the non-handle side anglers will find a large 7.3 marking as well as
the Type-R logo, this gives the reel a sporty look yet is stealthy enough that
it doesn’t distract anglers from the clean lines of the reel. Enough about the
cosmetics, it is time to see just how this new baitcaster performs in the field.
The non handle-side sideplate is
adorned with a 7.3 logo and the Type-R graphic
