Shimano Cardiff 301A vs Penn Slammer IV 8500 HSX

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

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

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

Penn Slammer IV 8500 HSX clearly outshines Shimano Cardiff 301A, offering significantly better performance in gear ratio (5.3:1) and maximum drag (22,6kg / 49,82lbs). While Shimano Cardiff 301A may be a budget-friendly option. For most anglers, Penn Slammer IV 8500 HSX is the kind of reel you can trust when performance matters.

What's the difference between Shimano Cardiff 301A and Penn Slammer IV?

Shimano Cardiff 301A

With a top weight score of 9.16 out of 10 (252g / 8.89oz), this reel keeps your setup light and responsive
A 7 out of 10 (4 A-RB + 1 RB) ball bearing gives a smooth performance across most typical fishing situations

Penn Slammer IV 8500 HSX

The reel brings in line quickly with its 8.2 out of 10 (5.3:1) rating, making it a great fit for power fishing
For 8 out of 10 (22,6kg / 49,82lbs) in drag score, the reel holds up well when you're battling strong fish or fishing near heavy cover