TackleTour

The Bantam has the weight of Antares but the features of Chronarch, and smaller in size that Antares.
If the handle was at least 90 mm like the Chronarch it could be better that the Chronarch.
I think the Chronarch MGL still is a better choice...weight, handle, brass...

Btw...the Bantam has brass gears?

Ovidiu-Andrei wrote:The Bantam has the weight of Antares but the features of Chronarch, and smaller in size that Antares.
If the handle was at least 90 mm like the Chronarch it could be better that the Chronarch.
I think the Chronarch MGL still is a better choice...weight, handle, brass...

Btw...the Bantam has brass gears?

Brass gears 99% sure. With that weight it better... I am in a similar situation, will only need 1 more baitcaster for next season (adding to collection) and it probably will just be another Chronarch MGL. I have experienced zero flex or weakness from the frame and it is a perfectly smooth reel that casts light lures great... Don't see the justified price jump for a little more rigidity, a lot more weight, and a stubby 84mm handle. This being said, if I get a deal on an 8 gear Bantam and it DOES have the bearings like the Chronarch MGL, I will give one a try, why not.

Just got my hands on the Bantam MGL haven't opened the box yet. Anyone have any requests for photos?

Ajaxin wrote:Just got my hands on the Bantam MGL haven't opened the box yet. Anyone have any requests for photos?

Do you have to ask???

I took a photo of the reel schematics and posted it on imgur. Can't figure how to make it show up here.

How does it feel in comp with the Chronarch MGL ?!?

Ovidiu-Andrei wrote:How does it feel in comp with the Chronarch MGL ?!?

I don't have a Chronarch MGL to compare it to. Initial impressions is its built like an absolute tank. It has some noticeable heft to it for sure. Fit and finish is great. I'm really digging the side cover, its unique. As far as smoothness its feels like any other Shimano with Micro module gears. I have to wait and see how it feels under load. Overall very satisfied with the purchase.

Ajaxin wrote:

You are the greatest!!! I saw one faintly on a youtube video and was pretty sure of what you posted, its just Shimano's new standard design. Now the only odd thing is why did all of the US retailers say it only has 8 total bearings??? Also the JDM catalogue with the Bantam MGL said 9 from the start so there is that.

They have done the same with the Tatula LT spinning reel, it has 7 total but everyone posted it as having 6.

Also any idea on spool weight for the Bantam yet???

DirtyD64 wrote:

Ajaxin wrote:

You are the greatest!!! I saw one faintly on a youtube video and was pretty sure of what you posted, its just Shimano's new standard design. Now the only odd thing is why did all of the US retailers say it only has 8 total bearings??? Also the JDM catalogue with the Bantam MGL said 9 from the start so there is that.

They have done the same with the Tatula LT spinning reel, it has 7 total but everyone posted it as having 6.

Also any idea on spool weight for the Bantam yet???

I can weigh the spool when I go home for a lunch break.

DirtyD64 wrote:

Ajaxin wrote:

You are the greatest!!! I saw one faintly on a youtube video and was pretty sure of what you posted, its just Shimano's new standard design. Now the only odd thing is why did all of the US retailers say it only has 8 total bearings??? Also the JDM catalogue with the Bantam MGL said 9 from the start so there is that.

They have done the same with the Tatula LT spinning reel, it has 7 total but everyone posted it as having 6.

Also any idea on spool weight for the Bantam yet???

All is right with the world now that you see it has that bearing you were "worried" about, lol

Metanium MGL Weight

Bantam MGL Weight

Metanium MGL Spool

Bantam MGL Spool

Bantam top Metanium bottom

Bantam MGL drive gear

Bantam MGL pinion

Bantam MGL side plate

Bantam MGL drive gear carbon drag washer

Bantam MGL Dartainium drag washer

Anybody else find it interesting that it looks like there is a screw at the end of the crankshaft and wormshaft? Did they do way with the C clips?

Great pics man...tks.
How does it feel then compared with the Metanium MGL?!?

Great pics man...tks.
How does it feel then compared with the Metanium MGL?!?