Shimano Vanford FA 2500AX vs Penn Slammer IV 8500 HSX

Shimano Vanford FA

Spinning

82.30 out of 100

Value for money4 out of 5

Quality classGood

Durability4.61 out of 10

Ergonomics6.42 out of 10

Gear ratio5.1:1

Maximum drag9kg / 19.84lbs

Weight175g / 6.17oz

Line retireve per crank75 centimeter / 29.53 inch

Ball bearings8

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €184.33
Is saltwater resistantNo
Spare spoolNo
Reel size2500A
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.25/160

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 Vanford FA 2500AX edges out Penn Slammer IV 8500 HSX with slightly better overall performance, especially on the ball bearings (8) and the weight (175g / 6,17oz). Still, Penn Slammer IV 8500 HSX holds its own with strengths like a gear ratio of 5.3:1 and a durability of 5.5 out of 10, making it a solid choice depending on your preferences and fishing needs.

What's the difference between Shimano Vanford FA and Penn Slammer IV?

Shimano Vanford FA 2500AX

With a score like 8.83 out of 10 (175g / 6,17oz), 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
With an outstanding bearing score of 10 out of 10 (8), the reel offers top tier smoothness. Ideal for anglers who appreciate premium feel