Originally marketed as a freshwater series of reels, the upgraded Ballistic EX series now features Magsealed construction, which uses Magnetic Oil to provide added protection from the corrosive effects of saltwater exposure. The oil is one of a new generation of Nano Fluids that has the ability to change density and shape, and provide much more thorough protection to the reel’s critical components.
Four models cover a wide range of applications for both fresh and saltwater, from the smallest light action EX2000H to the beefy EX4000H, these reels will cover most light tackle inshore fishing situations for summer flounder, blues, stripers, weakfish and false albacore, along with covering the freshwater bases for trout and bass.
The reels are lightweight thanks to their corrosion-proof Zaion body and side plate, making them a perfect fit for today’s generation of super lightweight rods. The Air Rotor design and hollow stainless steel bail contribute to the light weight of these reels, and the sealed, waterproof drag system ensures a smooth running drag under any conditions. Two ball bearings that support the spool also keep drag washers perfectly aligned, further assuring the drag runs free and smooth.
The EX2000H weighs just 7.9 ounces with a line capacity of 135 yards of 6-pound mono or 110 yards of 8-pound test. The medium light EX2500H checks in at 8.6 ounces and will hold 170 yards of 8-pound test mono. The EX3000H weighs 10.4 ounces and can be spooled with 200 yards of 10-pound test. The largest of the series, the EX4000H, comes in at 13.9 ounces with a line capacity of 260 yards of 12-pound test. All models feature a 10-bearing system consisting of one CRBB (super corrosion resistant ball bearing), eight stainless steel ball bearings and one roller bearing. All have gear ratios of 5.6:1. Prices range from $199.95 to $209.95 for the EX4000H.
If money is no object and you refuse to settle for anything but top of the line gear, do yourself a favor and check out the new EXIST Magsealed Series of spinning reels for your light tackle pursuits. This is the supercharged version of the Ballistic Ex Series and includes a trio of ultra-lightweight reels featuring Magsealed ball bearings on both sides of the drive gear in addition to a Magsealed main shaft and line roller. Saltwater anglers would be most interested in the largest of the three models, the EXIST3012H with a line capacity of 220 yards of 8-pound test and 160 yards of 12-pound test mono. It carries a suggested retail price tag of $209.95.
For more info on both series of reels, and the many other reels in Daiwa’s lineup, go to the website.
