Retrieve: Back in 2004, we measured the inches per turn (IPT) of the handle of the Scorpion 1000/1001 at twenty two inches per turn. The new XT has a slightly faster retrieve ratio that translates into a slightly faster IPT at twenty three and a half (23.5) inches with a full spool. We also noted, in 2004, that the Scorpion 1000/1001 had quite a bit of play in the handle when holding the spool down with your thumb and trying to rotate the handle forward and backward. Has Shimano Japan addressed this in the new XT?

The new XT has a much larger gear (right)...

No. There is still quite a bit of play in the handle of this reel. While we've experienced no actual performance issues through the years because of this, in a reel with the Shimano pedigree, there's just no excuse - especially considering the fact both Daiwa and Abu Garcia have it figured out.

... but the drag design is very similar and consistent with other Shimano baitcasters.

Drag: One serious drawback with the old Scorpion 1000/1001 was with the stock drag. We measured it at three (3) pounds maximum back in 2004, so when it came time to strap the XT down to our reel wrecker, we were curious as to what the results might be. This time, Shimano Japan came through as the 1000/1001 XT tested out at a very smooth, seven pounds of maximum pressure. This is doubly reassuring considering the Aldebaran's drag was very jerky at about 80% maximum.

The XT benefits from sculpted left and right hand grips.

Pricing and Availability: The Scorpion 1000/1001 XT has been available since late spring of 2010, but while the previous version Scorp sold for roughly $160, the XT retails for right around 22,500 Japanese Yen. With the current exchange rate hovering around 80, this equates to just over $280 for a brand new Scorpion 1000/1001 XT before shipping from Japan.

Available since the Spring of 2010, will the XT be as popular as the previous generation Scorpion 1000 series? As far as the US market is concerned, only if the exchange rate improves.

As far as we can tell, the US version of this reel, the Curado 50E, is the almost the same reel with a different paint job, a different colored handle, inclusion of an anti-reverse pawl (intended to solve the handle backplay issue), and different bearings (S-ARB in the Scorpion, non S-ARB in the 50E) yet it retails for $200.

Conclusion: As is evidenced by our review of the Shimano Aldebaran, the Scorpion 1000/1001 XT already came into TT HQ with some positive mojo because it is basically the same exact reel except with aluminum parts where the Aldebaran is magnesium. What we weren't prepared for was the mysterious improvement in casting performance the XT has over its magnesium counterpart. If the exchange rate were more favorable, it's safe to say the XT would be perfectly poised to inspire an entire new generation with the import tackle bug. As it stands, this reel is priced at least $100 too high to inspire a new generation of devotees. We're talking Chronarch, Zillion, Revo Premier, Tour Edition KVD level reel price point. Thank you weak dollar.

Those who liked the previous generation Scorpion 1000 series will likely be blown away by the new XT.

Price point aside, this is an entirely worthwhile reel - even more so than the previously reviewed and Editor's Choice awarded Aldebaran. Casting in just about any situation is handled with aplomb. The XT's drag is smooth and sufficiently powerful. Line capacity is better than the previous generation, and its profile is small and easily palmable. Lastly, the XT's weight is a non factor. The only thing missing is an external brake adjustment and well, that anti-reverse pawl. Anglers and tackle collectors may not flock to this reel as they once did to the previous generation Scorpion 1000 series, but those who do sample this little wonder are sure to appreciate the update.

Looking for a Scorpion 1000/1001 XT? Try Japan Tackle.com