The Two Different Types Of Spinning Reel Handles
- By: Justin Ritchey
- on
Did you know that there are two types of spinning reel handles?
It is important to know the differences between the types to make sure you are using the BEST gear for YOU!
So in this new video, you’ll learn the differences in reel handles, why that is important, and how to swap the handle to either side depending on your handedness.
Check out more below!
The Two Different Types Of Spinning Reel Handles [VIDEO]
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Direct Drive System
The solid one-piece aluminum handle winds in conjunction with the main gear on the reel itself.
This feature is commonly found on Daiwa products of $100 or over.
A threaded coupling is at the end of the handle which winds onto the threaded bolt on the reel.
Take your time when attaching the handle to prevent cross-threading or stripping the bolt.
When attaching the handle, make sure the handle is aligned with the bolt so it is straight when secured.
To attach the handle, hold the rotor with your fingers and the reel in your hand.
When you have the handle straight, wind down very slowly and gently so as not to fasten it too tight.
With most reels, there will be a stopping point.
Do not press and go beyond that because you could damage the threads of the handle and bolt on the reel.
If you choose to flip the side of the handle, do not screw into the bolt that is revealed.
All you have to do is screw off the cap on the opposite side and there will be a threaded rod just as with the bolt on the other side.
Both sides work in conjunction with the handle to allow it to be fastened on for your customization.
Two-Piece System
For this system, the handle inserts into the reel and works in conjunction with a threaded cap on the other side.
There is a collar and a metal rod that come out of the end of the handle.
The metal rod on the handle goes into the body of the reel and out the other side (where it is fastened by an attached cap piece).
There is slight play in the handle so you have to ensure the rod is pushed through so the play in the handle is snug and then the cap can be tightened all the way down.
Handle Swapping Tip
On some Daiwa reels, there is a rubber cover on the handle side beneath where it attaches to the reel.
When you are swapping handle sides, the cap piece has a rubber gasket already inside of it.
You must remove the rubber cover from the side you are removing the handle from and swap it along with the handle.
The rubber gasket within the cap is attached to prevent any internal damage to the reel or cap.
You will not be able to move the cap over without first moving the rubber cover on the gear.
The purpose of the rubber cover is to act as a water deterrent and protect the handle.
Conclusion
There are little tips and tricks for swapping the handle of the two different handle types of reels.
And direct drive systems are a bit more straightforward than two-piece systems.
Remember not to fasten the handle too tight and properly align the handle to not strip the threads of the bolts!
Have questions about your reel handles or how to swap the handle out?
Let me know in the comments below!
And if you know someone who wants to swap the handles of their reels, please TAG or SHARE this with them!
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Joe,
Question…I find that jacks are one of the easiest fish to catch. When they are feeding, I can throw whatever is rigged on my pole and catch one. Recently however, they have been working my canal in Cape Coral trashing from one dock to another and no matter what I cast (paddle tails, mirro lures, top waters) I don’t get a single strike. Are they not feeding, mating, or am I doing something wrong?
Those jacks are surely feeding if they are hitting at the surface. In most cases when they are feeding at the surface but not eating lures, the issue is that they are dialed into a specific sized prey… in most cases, they are feeding on very small baitfish so a 3 inch or bigger lure will get totally rejected. In those situations, I’ll tear off the tail of a soft plastic to have it fit what they are looking for better. Here’s an instance in which I did that recently for snook and redfish: https://saltstrongdev.wpengine.com/articles/nub-lure-slam-report/
Interesting…thanks for the information.
Justin,
That handle connection is one of the most prone areas for salt water intrusion. I fill that cavity with waterproof swimming pool pump grease. It stays fluid in the coldest of weather and prevents any water from entering my reel through the handle attachment. It doesn’t ooze out and really helps keep the insides corrosion free. I wish I could remember the name but I use it so infrequently I can’t. It comes in a tube and is pale blue…not your standard waterproof bearing grease!
Good idea, Kim! High Quality Grease is definitely a great preventative to add to any spinning reel, if you know how to use it properly.
Great Video. Thank u
1..Is the direct drive considered a better setup?
2.. Also is the Fuego LT FGLT 2500D XH…the best Fuego 2500.
I thought the was another offering.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Nice video Justin !!! Thanks for providing the differences and information on how to switch it around !!
Anytime, Pablo! I think many anglers will find this video helpful.
Great breakdown Justin!!
Thanks Bud!
This was very helpful. I reel left side which is pretty standard but when my son visits he will want right. Have some new Daiwa Fuegos but haven’t ever changed the handle. Good to know about the seal!
Love the tips from Saltstrong team!.
Thanks
Thanks Dave! Glad you found it helpful!
What are your thoughts on the after market power knob verses the standard type that comes with most reels ?
Personally, I really enjoy the round power knobs made by a few different aftermarket companies. However, I will stress that when you remove the handle knob from a Manufacture product and exchange it with one of the handle knobs, you will be voiding the warranty on that reel. I have changed the knobs on some of my reels with the understanding that I’m taking a risk and will need to own-up to this break in warranty if ever I need to have my reels professionally serviced.