Shimano Beastmaster 12000 MD vs Shimano Sahara FJ 4000X

The selected categories are different, score metrics vary from category to another.

Shimano Beastmaster 12000 MD

Seafishing

75.70 out of 100

Value for money3 out of 5

Quality classExcellent

Durability9.5 out of 10

Ergonomics3.4 out of 10

Gear ratio2.4:1

Maximum drag43kg / 94.8lbs

Weight2300g / 81.13oz

Line retireve per crank53 centimeter / 20.87 inch

Ball bearings20

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSeafishing
Price range~ €1,245.33
Is saltwater resistantYes
Spare spoolNo
Reel size-
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeStar drag
Handle orientationRight
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.4/1660

Shimano Sahara FJ

Spinning

47.70 out of 100

Value for money2 out of 5

Quality classLow

Durability7 out of 10

Ergonomics6.07 out of 10

Gear ratio4.7:1

Maximum drag11kg / 24.25lbs

Weight280g / 9.88oz

Line retireve per crank75 centimeter / 29.53 inch

Ball bearings4+1

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €71.33
Is saltwater resistantYes
Spare spoolNo
Reel size4000
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.3/180

Conclusion

Shimano Beastmaster 12000 MD clearly outshines Shimano Sahara FJ 4000X, offering significantly better performance in total score (7.57 out of 10) and durability (9.5 out of 10). While Shimano Sahara FJ 4000X may be a budget-friendly option. For most anglers, Shimano Beastmaster 12000 MD is the kind of reel you can trust when performance matters.

What's the difference between Shimano Beastmaster 12000 MD and Shimano Sahara FJ?

Shimano Beastmaster 12000 MD

Decent value at €1,245.33, it covers the basics, making it a great option for beginners or casual seafishing setups

Shimano Sahara FJ 4000X

With a score like 8.13 out of 10 (280g / 9,88oz), the reel feels light in the hand.. ideal for active techniques like twitching, jigging, or topwater.
When it comes to retrieve speed, a score of 5.71 out of 10 (75 centimeter / 29.53 inch) means slower line pickup, great when you need more control for slower fishing styles
Landing a score of 8 out of 10 (4+1) in bearings, it feels smooth and controlled. Great when you're fishing actively and want consistency