This was my first time to try out this reel and I was overwhelmed with how smooth it cast. It took a little trial and error to dial it in but once I did it was flawless. The only time I had issues was when I treated it like any other Bait caster and used my thumb. Not a good plan. This reel is so different from anything else I have ever used. NO THUMBS PLEASE! Trust me on this, you don't need it. i also teamed it up with the new Power Pro super slick 8, what a team. I was out casting people using Spinning reels. A little costly, perhaps but the cost is long forgotten. I would recommend this reel to all my friends. My buddy could not wait to get back to purchase one. With any luck they will be available soon.