Shimano Cardiff 301A vs Shimano Vanford FA C3000SDHAX

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 Vanford FA

Spinning

70.00 out of 100

Value for money3.5 out of 5

Quality classGood

Durability4.65 out of 10

Ergonomics6.38 out of 10

Gear ratio5.1:1

Maximum drag9kg / 19.84lbs

Weight185g / 6.53oz

Line retireve per crank75 centimeter / 29.53 inch

Ball bearings10

Technical Specifications

BrandSHIMANO
The main category of the reelSpinning
Price range~ €195.33
Is saltwater resistantNo
Spare spoolNo
Reel sizeC3000SDHA
Handle typeSingle handle
Drag typeFront drag
Handle orientationLeft, Right
Line capacity monofilmm/meter: 0.18/120

Conclusion

Shimano Vanford FA C3000SDHAX 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 C3000SDHAX is the kind of reel you can trust when performance matters.

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

Shimano Cardiff 301A

A 7 out of 10 (4 A-RB + 1 RB) ball bearing gives a smooth performance across most typical fishing situations

Shimano Vanford FA C3000SDHAX

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