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Tech Tackle precision reels and rods are sure to bring a smile to any angler
(continued)
 A
multi-purpose package: So your
done playing with your mini rod and reel outfit, now what do you do? Tech Tackle
sells the mini outfits in a clever package that has components that actually
double as a nifty little display stand. These outfits come tied down in
protective plastic cases, the bottom and top of these cases pop out and connect
to one another forming the base for the stand, while a bundled angled piece of
plastic then attaches to form a holding arm. The arm holds the reels at 60
degrees. The spinning gear looks better displayed as gravity hangs the rig
neatly in place. The Cabo can be held in the upright position simply because the
handle is so large, but the Abu Morrum and Quantum PT-XM rotate to the side or
downwards.
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All combos
come in a protective tube |
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You don't
want to throw this package away, the top and bottom form the base of a
display stand |
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Each reel
also comes with a display arm which connects to the base |
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The three
components that form each display stand |
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Tension is
enough to hold the two sections together |
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A display
stand is ready to holster a combo |
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The Cabo's
grip is thick enough to hold the outfit upright |
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While the
spinning gear will hang the baitcasting outfits will rotate to the side in
the holster, but they still look good |
Ratings: (as best we could)
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Tech Tackle
Collectible General Ratings (?/10) |
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Construction/Quality |
While I have seen some mini reels with similar
quality none have been branded and miniaturized with such attention to
detail. The rods actually feature wound on guides. A very nicely constructed
package |
9 |
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Performance |
Hmmm. a hard rating here. While we can't
really rate these against full size reels it would really be cool if you
could actually cast the baitcasting models. Overall the gearing is
impressive and it is fun cranking these back and forth |
7 |
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Price |
Are they worth 12.99? Yes absolutely. They
make a great conversation piece for your office |
9 |
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Features |
These combos are feature rich for miniatures.
I still can't get over the action of some of these rods and the wound on
guides look great! |
9 |
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Design (Ergonomics) |
Ergonomically these tiny outfits mimic their
real counterparts well |
9 |
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Application |
While you shouldn't be out fishing for
anything bigger than a goldfish with one of these rigs they make fantastic
gifts, and are sure to make any angler smile |
8 |
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Total Score |
8.5 |
Conclusion: I couldn't help but grin when I first saw these lifelike mini
collectibles. These tiny reels feature quality die-cast metal construction, and
the details on the rods include wound on guides and authentic scaled logos. Real
line and working gearing completes the package nicely. Availability is
increasing and they are or will be available at Boaters World, Sportsman's
Warehouse, Sports Authority, Cabela's, and Bass Pro Shops. Each combo will
retail for $12.99 which is pretty reasonable for a collectible of this quality.
The product we reviewed is just a sampling of the "Series 1" offerings. There
should be more collectibles on the way shortly including a Abu Garcia Torno
baitcaster and inshore Ambassadeur, and we might even see a Van Staal reel in
the future. Tech Tackle may not offer the typical "tackle" that you will find
reviewed here on TT, but they sure brought smiles to our faces, and are sure to
do the same for many an angler looking to brighten up their home or office desk
real estate. When you can't be out fishing, having one of these entertaining
doodads on your desk at the office or at home will serve as a constant reminder
of just why you are toiling away.
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