2 Tatulas or 1 T3, that is the question

[bassbandit]

As the title states, I am considering picking up a few reels for spring and can't decide if I want to go Tatula or T3. You can buy Tatulas on Ebay right around $100 with free shipping and TW has the T3 for just under $200. I have a couple of Ballistics but haven't spent much time on the water, not enough to form an opinion about whether i like the design. For those who own both, is the T3 is truly 'twice" the reel?

Feedback appreciated.

[Jeremy S]

This is a source of argument for many. I've got a Tatula and a Tatula R as well as a T3 and T3bxs.

To me the T3 is twice the reel, it's lighter, it casts like a dream regardless of wind, the knobs are great, it palms much more comfortably than the Tatula, and I just prefer it.

The Tatula however is an outstanding reel, it just doesn't fit my hand as well and it's not as smooth/light/refined/I can't describe it all. Right now if I was in search of another reel, it would be a T3 for 200 or a T3b for 110 over either Tatula mainly because of feel.

The Tatula is worth every penny, the T3 (in my opinion) is just worth more than the price they are asking for it.

[hobobob]

Big mitt = tatula, small hand = t3. It also depends on your reel holding style. Try to handle one in person before making your decision.

[smalliesteve]

Keep in mind you can swap in more spools on the T3 if you're interested in upgrading.

[tim3716]

Also if you dont like the feel of zaion then dont the the T3. The Ballistics feel "cheaper" than the regular T3.

[Hogsticker2]

T3 for comfort, 3D braking, and spool options make this one of the most versatile reels in the game IMO.

[FrankW]

In my case small hands has nothing to do with getting the Tatula. I have small hands and have no problems at all using the Tatula. Now if you are someone who wraps you hand around the reel so you can feel the line then the Tatula may not work as well as some reels. You just have to handle one. I don't find the Tatula to be large at all especially when compared to older Diawas like the Procaster Z.

Frank

[jwfflipper14]

I have both reels but I would get two Tats before I got another T3. I can't really tell the difference in smoothness as the Tatula is as smooth as it gets. I don't have " big hands " but I find the Tat to fit quite well in my hand. I understand about all the mods that can be done to reels but find I am very happy with the way they come!

Jeff

[surferdave]

Wow Really? The Tatula is slightly larger than a T3, but smaller isn't always more comfortable. When considering how comfortable a reel is, I think about casting and retrieving jerkbaits all day. The T3's 3D braking presses against my fourth finger which can be uncomfortable, and when pitching or low side casting, my line occasionally gets caught on the side of the hood. I'd pick up a Tatula Type R for $150 if I were you. Zaion feels cheap to me. I own a T3 MX and it doesn't feel as solid as my various aluminum or magnesium Daiwas.

[finebassfisher]

T3! That deal isn't going to be around forever.

[cndbasshunter]

Tatula for sure. T3 has been bad luck for me. Lol.