Shimano Cardiff 301A vs Shimano Sahara FJ C 5000 XGX

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

70.00 out of 100

Value for money3 out of 5

Quality classLow

Durability7 out of 10

Ergonomics4 out of 10

Gear ratio6.2:1

Maximum drag11kg / 24.25lbs

Weight305g / 10.76oz

Line retireve per crank105 centimeter / 41.34 inch

Ball bearings4+1

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €74.33
Is saltwater resistantYes
Spare spoolNo
Reel sizeC 5000 XG
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.35/175

Conclusion

Shimano Sahara FJ C 5000 XGX clearly outshines Shimano Cardiff 301A, offering significantly better performance in gear ratio (6.2:1) and maximum drag (11kg / 24,25lbs). While Shimano Cardiff 301A may be a budget-friendly option. For most anglers, Shimano Sahara FJ C 5000 XGX 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 C 5000 XGX

A fast gear ratio of 10 out of 10 (6.2:1), means the reel is built for speed and it's perfect for active retrieves, and quick follow ups
With a great drag score 10 out of 10 (11kg / 24,25lbs), the reel is built to handle big fish confidently.. whatever the setting, freshwater or inshore salt
A high retrieve rate of 10 out of 10 (105 centimeter / 41.34 inch), means the reel is made just for speed, perfect for speed fishing or covering water quickly
Saltwater-safe design makes it perfect for spinning conditions.