Shimano Cardiff 301A vs Shimano Sahara FJ 1000X

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

Shimano Sahara FJ

Spinning

57.00 out of 100

Value for money2.5 out of 5

Quality classLow

Durability7 out of 10

Ergonomics6.32 out of 10

Gear ratio5.0:1

Maximum drag3kg / 6.61lbs

Weight205g / 7.23oz

Line retireve per crank66 centimeter / 25.98 inch

Ball bearings4+1

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €63.33
Is saltwater resistantYes
Spare spoolNo
Reel size1000
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.18/170

Conclusion

Shimano Sahara FJ 1000X clearly outshines Shimano Cardiff 301A, offering significantly better performance in gear ratio (5.0:1) and durability (7 out of 10). While Shimano Cardiff 301A may be a budget-friendly option. For most anglers, Shimano Sahara FJ 1000X is the kind of reel you can trust when performance matters.

What's the difference between Shimano Cardiff 301A and Shimano Sahara FJ?

Shimano Sahara FJ 1000X

Thanks to its 6.33 out of 10 (5.0:1) gear ratio, the reel offers a strong balance between torque and quick retrieval
Designed with a light drag at 5 out of 10 (3kg / 6,61lbs), the reel is perfect when you're going after small fish or using ultralight setups
Saltwater-safe design makes it perfect for spinning conditions.