Permanently Sealed Drag Newest Abel Reel Feature
OutdoorHub 07.23.14
A maintenance-free sealed drag system is now available in three sizes of Abel Reels, with more on the horizon, according Don R. Swanson, Abel president.
“While its 27 year history has proven that Abel cork drag reels work and set world records, times change, technology changes, and the view on what was once considered ‘routine care’ required on a cork drag reel has also changed, explained Jeff Patterson, director of sales.
Abel’s answer is a lightweight, maintenance-free drag mechanism that has been permanently enclosed utilizing a high-tech machined aluminum and Rulon® sealed drag system.
A collaborative effort with Oregon reel designer Joe Saracione, Abel’s Sealed Drag Reel consists of “stacked multi-discs of prime grade machined aluminum and Rulon®, and a field tested proprietary gasket seal that completely locks out moisture. The aluminum drag discs are hard anodized for abrasion resistance and sparingly lubricated with waterproof grease that’s light enough to allow free motion at low drag settings, yet with enough friction protection to last throughout a lifetime of heavy drag operation,” according to Swanson.
“Rulon is known for low coefficient of friction, excellent abrasion resistance, wide range of operating temperatures, and chemical inertness. The anodized aluminum sealed drag cartridge, coupled with a 330 degree angled cam system drag knob features 30 detents (clicks) of adjustment for virtually infinite settings using an infallible draw bar tightening system. The innovative drag design also yields incredibly low startup inertia to protect fine tippets, while still giving plenty of power for slowing down even the fastest running fish,” Swanson added.
Abel Sealed Drag Reel assemblies are fitted with both incoming and outgoing clicks.
The sealed drag (SD) assembly reels come standard with machined aluminum handles, and will be initially available in sizes SD 3/4, SD 4/5, and SD 5/6 priced $50 over the corresponding standard Abel cork drag models. Larger sizes will be available beginning in winter 2015.
