Alright i've strictly been a Shimano man but i've had my eye on the Daiwa Alphas. I hate buying a reel without actually holding it and testing it. But seeing this is a Japan only reel, no local shops carry them. Can anyone give me their opinion on this reel and is it worth the $$$. How does it compare the the Shimano 50mg? Thanks guys.

Check out the forum over at www.tackletour.com

They've got a review of the alphas, opinions and lots of good info on both reels.

Just be carful buying the foreign model reels because it can be hard to get parts if repairs are needed

Your better off buying the pixy I have had both of the reels and the pixy is the better of the 2. If your contemplating buying a daiwa I would seggest it I have all daiwa's and 2 calais cranking reels I definatley like the light weight daiwa's much better.

Hey guys,

Thanks for all your feedback. Wood the article on tackle tour was very interesting. TM I saw the Pixy but was leaning towards the Alphas due the larger line capacity. I already have couple of finesse baitcasters so I wanted something with more capacity.

Mag, regarding the parts availability for the import reels. It's true that it maybe harder to get parts/service for these type of reels but it's a trade off. The quality of the Japanese only imports are far more better than the U.S. counterparts. I know you're a Shimano fan, have you tried the Scorpion 1000? It's a great little reel! It's basically a Curado 100 but it already comes with a wiffle spool. Check out the pic.

Eman,
I would go w/ the daiwa for whatever reel you decide on, personally I like how they sit much lower than shimano's you can really palm them better w/ the exception of the calais. I am looking foward to getting some of the custom stuff for my daiwa's carbon handles and cork grips I know Dan (lightningrod) has them they are sweet.