Shimano Stella FK 2500X vs Penn Slammer IV 8500 HSX

Shimano Stella FK

Spinning

93.80 out of 100

Value for money3.5 out of 5

Quality classExcellent

Durability9.5 out of 10

Ergonomics6.3 out of 10

Gear ratio5.1:1

Maximum drag9kg / 19.84lbs

Weight210g / 7.41oz

Line retireve per crank75 centimeter / 29.53 inch

Ball bearings12+1

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €593.33
Is saltwater resistantYes
Spare spoolNo
Reel size2500
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 160/0.16

Penn Slammer IV

Spinning

8500 Hsx

70.80 out of 100

Value for money4.5 out of 5

Quality classExcellent

Durability5.5 out of 10

Ergonomics4 out of 10

Gear ratio5.3:1

Maximum drag22.6kg / 49,82lbs

Weight870g / 30.69oz

Line retireve per crank127 centimeter / 50 inch

Ball bearings9

Technical Specifications

BrandPENN
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €294.00
Is saltwater resistantNo
Spare spoolNo
Reel size8500 HS
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.46/415

Conclusion

Shimano Stella FK 2500X clearly outshines Penn Slammer IV 8500 HSX, offering significantly better performance in weight (210g / 7,41oz) and durability (9.5 out of 10). While Penn Slammer IV 8500 HSX may be a budget-friendly option. For most anglers, Shimano Stella FK 2500X is the kind of reel you can trust when performance matters.

What's the difference between Shimano Stella FK and Penn Slammer IV?

Shimano Stella FK 2500X

With a score like 8.6 out of 10 (210g / 7,41oz), 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
Saltwater-safe design makes it perfect for spinning conditions.