Joe,

I have been using an Okuma Nitryx 400 for about 6 months now. I use it with 15lb copolymer on a 7'6" M Shimano Teramar, and the rig pulls double duty for big leadheads (1.5 to 3 oz) and sardines.

I bought this reel because I had been using Okuma spinners to good effect, and I got it cheap on E-Bay. I chose the Nitryx over the Induron because I wanted fewer bearings/less maintenance for saltwater use.

It casts well, and the drags are smooth...though you've got to store them loosened up, because I've noticed Okuma drags will mash down and get "sticky" if you leave them buckled down (made that mistake on a Convector CN-30). The Nitryx is very easy to pull apart to clean and lube. The handles are very comfortable. The frame is very solid.

Mechanically, the Nitryx has held up great. I only have two complaints:
1) The chrome plating on exterior plastic parts flaked off within a week (this has happened on all 5 Okuma reels I own).
2) If you accidentally leave the clicker on when you cast, the clicker pawl springs WILL get knocked off their frame mounts.

I have not had to deal with Okuma service...can't comment on that.

Would I buy another Nitryx? No, because Shimano just came out with the newly redesigned Cardiff "A" series for under $100. I recently got a Cardiff 200A for smaller leadheads; it is smoother casting and it has the dartanium drags (they hold their settings better and they don't mash down). Assuming the ARB bearings hold up over time, then my plan is to eventually replace the Nitryx with a Cardiff 400A.

I would recommend the Nitryx ONLY if you absolutely can't spend more than about $40.