Question for Bantam1 regarding Maxcuatro line diameters.

[jim spooner]

I’ve been using Shimano’s Maxcuatro braid since they introduced the smaller 20 pound test. Although I really like the line,
I find the dark moss green color difficult to see, so I purchased some of the hi-vis yellow (also 20lb test).
I immediately noticed that it looked to be thicker than the other Maxcuatro I’ve been using and when I measured it (calipers), it is 25% larger than the moss green. I’m baffled as to this difference in line diameter between the two different colors
(.010" vs .0075") and perhaps someone at Shimano can explain it.

[Bantam1]

It sounds like a mislabeled spool to me. The dye for the line doesn't change the diameter.

[jim spooner]

That would be the most likely explanation. I'm glad the yellow wasn't the first of the Maxcuatro I used or I would've been miffed about the advertised claims of 25% thinner diameter.
Considering that it’s difficult to measure the true diameter of braid (because of the “squish" factor), I’m guessing that the "mislabeled" 20lb/.010” dia. line is actually 30 lb test…..even though the stated spec size for the Maxcuatro 30 is .009”
(standard Power Pro is .011”).

[Bantam1]

MC is much thinner than the equivalent Power Pro. That is why I believe you received a mislabeled spool. It's not common, but it does happen from time to time.

[jim spooner]

First time it’s ever happened to me…..and I’ve bought a lot of line over many years. It’s aggravating not getting what I ordered, and then trying to figure out what I actually received. crap happens I guess.

[Bantam1]

You can send it in for a replacement. I know that isn't the fast solution.

[jim spooner]

I’m not sure that’s an option at this point…..especially since I’ve used a good part of it. I hate to hassle the vendor I bought it from since it's no fault of theirs.

What would be your guess as to what the rating would be? It “measures” .010”, which is between the .009 of 30lb and .011 of 40lb (Maxcuatro specs).

I’m not sure I’d be correct to assume that calipers might tend to flatten the line, preventing a true diametrical measure. If that is the case, it may actually be .011/40lb.

Regardless….I’d just like to be able to label it before sticking it in my inventory.

[Bantam1]

It's tough to say. I would lean more towards 40 pound given the diameter you measured.

[jim spooner]

Thanks, I appreciate your input.

[jim spooner]

I got a replacement spool of the 20# Maxcuatro (hi-vis yellow) and its diameter measures as advertised. Problem (mislabeled spool) solved.