SLIDE into the Next Phase of CZB Equipped
Reels with the 13 Fishing Concept Z SLD (continued)
The Concept Z SLD is much less likely to be the
reel that you see in your buddy's arsenal, and yet it is also the reel that most
other anglers will ask about. Much like the company's bright green reels and
rods the orange knobs are hard to miss, and when other anglers see the SLIDE
feature they are often intrigued and want to learn more.
13 Fishing has upped the level of
refinement in this generation, as well as the fun factor
The Concept Z SLD is a good reel for anglers or
all skill levels. It helps anglers really dial in their casts, and benefits
anglers that are new to baitcasting by applying extra force when needed, or
seasoned veterans, by giving them an extra edge when pitching or skipping
lightweight baits.
The CZB design continues to prove
itself over time
While I would consider Shimano's DC system more
like a dual-clutch in a sports car the Concept Z SLD SLIDE system is still more
akin to a manual system, just one that gives anglers the ability to fine tune
their gearshift throws. Casting with the system never feels like cheating, and
instead the system feels like just one more setting, and is a lot more intuitive
and easy to use than one might expect.
The team at 13 Fishing clearly
isn't afraid to make products that are different and fun
In terms of applications the Concept Z SLD handles
both sides of the spectrum very well, and is well suited for casting big baits
and lightweight lures, but I wouldn't recommend it for baitfinesse due to the
unique spool startup, which is especially affected by ultralight baits. Where
the reel shines is in the mid to heavy bait range, and because the frame, CZBs,
and gears are so corrosion resistant it is a great choice for fishing brackish
water or pulling double duty as an inshore reel.
Ratings: (We've
re-calibrated our ratings standard for 2008 and have included a key at the
bottom of the following matrix as a guide):
|
13 Fishing Concept Z SLD Baitcaster
Reel
Ratings
(?/10) |
|
Construction/Quality |
The overall build quality of the Concept
Series has improved with this generation and the Concept Z SLD features
not just improved materials but tighter tolerances throughout |
8.8 |
|
Performance |
I didn't find max casting to be any
better, or worse, than the original Concept Z but cast control is much
improved with the externally adjustable SLIDE feature. The reel's long
term performance has definitely improved as the out of the box
smoothness lasts longer with the new treated gears and better overall
tolerances. The drag consistency has also been improved and we didn't
need to lubricate the CZBs as much as the original reel |
8.8 |
|
Price |
Not as affordable as the Gen 1 but more
feature rich. Anglers are getting a much better reel but competition at
this price point is pretty fierce |
7.8 |
|
Features |
13 Fishing is delivering features in this
new reel that simply are not available on any other reel on the market.
The CZBs and SLIDE cast control pair together to deliver a unique
fishing experience that is both functional and fun |
8.5 |
|
Design (Ergonomics) |
The Concept Z SLD is still sleek and
compact and while the knob and dial quality have all been improved I did
find the rear non-handle side of the reel to be a bit too angular and at
times this can be uncomfortable when palming |
8.0 |
|
Application |
A great reel for power fishing
applications when control is paramount. The ability to stand up to the
elements with a frame and polymer CZBs that will not corrode make this
an excellent reel for brackish and inshore fishing |
9.0 |
|
Total Score |
8.48 |
Ratings Key: 1 = terrible : 2 =
poor : 3 = lacking : 4 = sub par : 5 = mediocre : 6 = fair : 7 = good :
8 = great : 9 = excellent : 10 = unbelievable!
For More Details of the updated rating system visit our explanation
here |
Pluses and Minuses:
|
Plus |
Minus |
|
+ Offers
anglers a unique cast control feature with the external SLIDE system |
- Doesn't feel as solid as aluminum based
reels |
|
+ CZBs continue to deliver a
differentiated feel and performance |
- Reel is so angular on the reel some may
find it uncomfortable to palm |
|
+ Great for controlled pinpoint casts |
- Lefty anglers only get the 7.5:1 gear
ratio |
|
+ Drag is both powerful and smoother than
last generation |
|
|
- Much improved tolerances throughout make
for a smoother and more powerful feeling reel |
|
|
+ In a sea of same-ness the Concept Z SLD
isn't afraid to break the mold and offer anglers something different,
and fun to fish |
|
Conclusion: While the new Concept Z SLD
isn't as affordable as the Gen 1 it is still delivers plenty of bang for the
buck, and bears features that you simply cannot find on any other reel. The
Concept Z SLD improves on the CZB reel formula, and the SLIDE feature will
appeal to anglers that like to make casting adjustments for their baits, or
simply want to up their pinpoint casting game. Matt and the team at 13 Fishing
continue to push the envelope when it comes to design, and with the new Concept
Z SLD the company's reels are also demonstrating great strides in terms of
improved refinement.
Just as we found the original
Concept Z to be an innovative reel the new Gen II reel continues that tradition
by introducing design features, like the SLIDE cast control and polymer drag,
and making subtle quality advancements, that add up to noticeable performance
improvements.
The Concept Z SLD improves on the
original and adds in features that give anglers the ability to fine-tune their
fishing experience. It is hard not to smile when you lock in the slider, make a
cast, and swing on a fish!
While there are competing reels that still feel
more premium the one thing that I really appreciate about the Concept Z SLD is
that it doesn't try and chase the competition, but boldly tries to win by
offering anglers something really different. Few companies are willing to
take chances and design, let alone invest to tool up a reel like the Concept Z
SLD, and yet we would be surprised if 13 Fishing did any different. The company
likes to have fun with their portfolio, and it clearly shows in reels like the
Concept Z SLD, which is designed to not only be functional but also a whole lot
of fun to fish.
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Fishing Concept Z
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