Shimano AX FB Spinning Reels

Shimano AX FB Spinning Reels

With Varispeed™ and Dyna-Balance®, you can count on the Shimano AX reel for long casts and smooth retrieves.

Price: $22.99
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Model:
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Model
TD Code
Line
Retrieve
Per Crank
Line
Capacity
(lb/yds)
PowerPro Line
Capacity
(lb/yds)
Max
Drag (lb)
Ball
Bearings
Roller
Bearings
Gear
Ratio
Weight
(oz)
Price
AX-ULSA
SHM-0920
18''2/190
4/100
6/60
5/135
8/105
10/65
15/60
4.0104.2:15.6$22.99 USD
AX1000FB
SHM-0921
25''2/270
4/140
6/110
10/95
15/85
20/65
4.5115.2:17.3$22.99 USD
AX2500FB
SHM-0922
29''6/200
8/140
10/120
10/170
15/145
30/95
6.5115.2:18.9$22.99 USD
AX4000FB
SHM-0923
32''8/240
10/200
12/160
15/265
30/175
50/145
13.0115.2:112.5$22.99 USD
With Varispeed™ and Dyna-Balance®, you can count on the AX reel for long casts and smooth retrieves.
  • Graphite Frame, Sideplate and Rotor
  • Diecast Aluminum Spool
  • Varispeed™ (except AX-ULSA)
  • Super Stopper® II (except AX-ULSA)
  • Ported Handle Shank (except AX-ULSA)
  • Dyna-Balance®
  • Power Roller® II (except AX-ULSA)
AX® FB Feature Details
  • Varispeed™
    Normal oscillation systems use a constant rotation of the oscillation gear that, when translated to the cam, provides an inconsistent spool speed. This results in line lay that stacks at either end of the spool. By using an oval oscillation gear, we are able to alter the speed of the oscillation cam to provide a consistent spool speed. This results in an even line lay that provides excellent castability and manageability.
  • Super Stopper® II
    Super Stopper II anti-reverse uses a one-way bearing that eliminates backplay. This provides the angler with instant hooksetting power. In some reels, the Super Stopper II can be turned off to allow backreeling for special techniques and situations.
  • Dyna-Balance®
    This feature eliminates wobble during the retrieve by counterbalancing the rotor to enhance sensitivity and smoothness. By using computer balancing, an approach similar to car tire balancing, we are able to redistribute the rotor weight to create smooth rotation and eliminate vibrations caused by the reel.
  • Power Roller® II
    This is an oversized line roller that reduces twist from casting and retrieving and is enhanced with a tapered area on the support to help line get onto the roller quicker.
4.5 Stars based on 11 reviews
By ChuckD
Clayton, NC
Shimano AX is stout
April 1, 2020
Not flashy or pricey, but I've had an AX for years, they just work without the steep pricetag
Pros
  • Great for letting a new user get into the sport
Cons
  • None
By Nick
New York
Durable and Smooth Casting
August 13, 2018
I’ve been using this for 6 yrs now and it still feel like it’s brand new.
By Jim M.
Virginia
Excellent reel and even better value
July 16, 2018
I've been using these reels for over 30 years for ultra-light fishing with #4 line and Ugly Stick rods. They are little workhorses. Had no problems with 18 lb. red or 26 lb. snook. Day-to-day it's used for freshwater; largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie, bluegill, catfish with the occasional trout.

When it is time to replace them, I find reels that are a bit smoother cranking and drag but not enough to make up the difference in price. Unfortunately it appears that Shimano may have discontinued this little gem. My first was $14. The last time I bought them was $17. This time $22, but well worth the price.
Pros
  • Little slower retrieve rate. Lightweight. Durable.
Cons
  • Discontinued (I think)
By Sherief
Springfield Gardens, NY
great casting reel
May 29, 2018
I have the rear drag version of this reel. the reel is durable and teh drag is smooth. I wish if it has an extra BB to make it more smooth. but for the price it's of course worth it.
By Ray R.
Maryland
Great Little Reel
May 27, 2017
Best small reel for the dollar.
By John
Richmond Hill, Georgia.
No doubt.
August 29, 2016
First, this reel is mounted on a Penn Inshore Squadron 7ft med rod. My first trip I landed a slightly smaller Bonnethead. This was my second trip yesterday and the reel got put through the paces. This puppy was in excess of 4 ft. The drag got a workout and performed flawlessly. Have no doubt about it, this reel can perform, It cast very nicely, retrieve is very smooth and is just the right weight for all day fishing without tiring you out. Holds up to salt water just fine so long as you do a proper rinse down when finished for the day, but i generally do a breakdown cleaning and lube twice a year anyway since I fish year round. Loaded with 30 lb. Spiderwire Glow-vis braid with several yards of 12 lb mono backing. The reel has proven itself, just writing to remove any doubt and answer any questions you may have about this Shimano Ax4000fb. You do not need a $200-$300 rig to catch fish. Always check your knots.
Pros
  • Price.
  • Oversize line roller works exceptionally well.
  • Comfortable weight .
  • Drag works flawlessly.
Cons
  • None yet.
By ftblcoach
Fremont, California
Shimano AX4000FB Spinning Reel
May 2, 2015
Great reel...Shimano puts out an excellent product for this reel.
Pros
  • Great action..... excellent action...love this reel.
By austin
boston,ma
Great buy for the money
December 12, 2014
i have had this reel for about 3 years now. i use it as my beater reel because it is less expensive and i did not care if i damaged it. to my surprise i have found this reel to hold up to just about anything. i would definitely recommend this reel
Pros
  • durable
Cons
  • none
By Steven
Melbourne, Victoria
More For Less.
July 29, 2014
I bought 3 of these Shimano AX Spinning Reels for the kids for use when we go bait fishing for Brown and Rainbow Trout In the lakes of central Victoria.
I was so surprised at what kind of smoothness and just plain quality goes into these bargain priced reels from Shimano.
I bought another one and keep it loaded with line inside the lifejacket compartment of my 4.3 meter Tinny and am always ready just in case of a REEL emergency.
The kids have Power Baited Dozens of 10 to 25 inch trout with their Catanna Rod/ AX Reel combos and the reels are still functioning amazingly well.
By pat k.
johnstown pa.
reel parts
February 25, 2014
reel is great but tackle unlimited does not sell parts may as well buy product direct from manufacturer
By David
Newark, DE
Good All Around Reel
August 6, 2012
Bought this reel to use as an all around freshwater/light saltwater reel. It has caught everything from bass and catfish to blues and stripers. Good price and good performance
1 Question & 1 Answer
Ray
from Centralia WA asked:
February 18, 2018
I have an older Shimano 300q AX. Are these good fishing reels for Steelhead? How does the quality rate?
1 Answers
The quality isn't there with this reel like most of Shimano products. I woukld advise using a Sedona or Nasci for the application your using this reel for.
Donald
on February 20, 2018

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