Shimano Vanford FA 2500AX vs Shimano Cardiff 301A

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

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

Shimano Cardiff 301A

Multireels

34.80 out of 100

Value for money3.5 out of 5

Quality classMedium

Durability3.69 out of 10

Ergonomics6.38 out of 10

Gear ratio5.8:1

Maximum drag5kg / 11.02 lbs

Weight252g / 8.89oz

Line retireve per crank61cm / 24.01 inch

Ball bearings4 A-RB + 1 RB

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelMultireels
Price range~ €88.60
Is saltwater resistantNo
Spare spoolNo
Reel size301
Handle typeDouble handle
Drag typeStar drag
Handle orientationLeft
Line capacity monofilmm/m: 0.25/285. 0.30/235, 0.40/40 lb/yds:12/230, 14/180

Conclusion

Shimano Vanford FA 2500AX clearly outshines Shimano Cardiff 301A, offering significantly better performance in maximum drag (9kg / 19,84lbs) and gear ratio (5.1:1). While Shimano Cardiff 301A may be a budget-friendly option. For most anglers, Shimano Vanford FA 2500AX is the kind of reel you can trust when performance matters.

What's the difference between Shimano Vanford FA and Shimano Cardiff 301A?

Shimano Vanford FA 2500AX

Thanks to its 7 out of 10 (5.1:1) gear ratio, the reel offers a strong balance between torque and quick retrieval
With a great drag score 9.2 out of 10 (9kg / 19,84lbs), the reel is built to handle big fish confidently.. whatever the setting, freshwater or inshore salt
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