Retrieve: When it's time to re-engage the spool, the new Revo5 X is somewhat reminiscent in feel to the Revo5 SX. That's because both are equipped with brass gears that deliver solid performance. The gears are different, but close enough in composition (when combined with the same frame and sideplate construction), to provide familiar, smooth performance. Like the SX, the Revo5 X, is also available in three different gear ratios (although with different options): 5.4:1, 6.7:1, and 7.3:1. I fished the middle option (6.7:1).

The handle measures 90mm center of knob to center of knob

Of interest here are the afore mentioned, new logo knobs that have a shape similar to the old EVA knobs Abu Garcia used, but those on the new X are made of a PVC compound. They're not quite as comfortable as the larger knobs found on the X's Revo5 siblings, but still more comfortable than the former EVA knobs because the proportions are better - these are just a hair more thin. Otherwise, the nice, long 90mm handle provides plenty of leverage.

The new, logo knobs are quite comfortable to grasp

Power: If true cranking power is what you seek, the RevoX, available in a 5.4:1 gear ratio, can accommodate. However, many anglers these days find reels with gear ratios in the 6s and even 7s sufficient for their needs. My 6.7:1 reel was certainly capable of pulling a Strike King 10XD on a few test casts, but I'm more of a traditionalist and would choose the 5.4:1 reel for dedicated deep cranking. I know a few bass pros that use reels in the 7 range for that technique, so preferences obviously vary. Thanks to Abu Garcia's use of an oversized gear, power, in general, is not something these reels lack, and I found the Revo5 X very solid under load.

Inside is a main gear of brass alloy

Drag: Nestled within the Revo5 X's main gear are the remnants of Abu Garcia's former drag stack consisting of 3 carbon matrix, and two aluminum (one keyed) washers. I say former drag stack because this was the drag composition of most Revo reels prior to generation 4 when the manufacturer debuted their PowerStack Carbon Drag. Really, the stack in the new X is the same as that of found in the majority of manufacturers' casting reels these days, though more commonly in pricier platforms. At this price point, we usually see alternatives to the carbon matrix washers either in whole or in part.

The drag stack is not as aggressive as the PowerStack Carbon Drag, however, it is a full carbon matrix plus aluminum washer set

As constructed in the Revo5 X, the stack delivers a maximum rated drag of twenty pounds. Out on the water, this common drag stack delivers familiar, reliable performance. You can feel those carbon washers doing their job. Really, when you open any casting reel and see a similar mix of carbon matrix and metal washers, you know the drag is going to be reliable. Drag composition has come a long way from twenty years ago when materials were more random.

The nice, low position of the Revo5 X in the reel seat

Design & Ergonomics: We pretty much covered the benefits of Abu Garcia's new, asymmetrical design of their Revo5 casting reels during our write up of the Revo5 SX. The one notable difference between the X and it's pricier siblings is the afore mentioned handle knob or knobs (since there are two on each reel). As discussed earlier, those found on the X platform are smaller than those I fished on the SX, have a similar shape to the former EVA knobs Abu Garcia relied upon for so long, but are more comfortable to grasp both in profile and texture than the EVA. The Revo5 X comes with a nice, long, 90mm handle to compliment the knobs giving the overall platform a feeling of refinement not often found at this price point.

Abu's Revo5 X retails for $119.95

Price & Applications: As we have seen across all industries worldwide, costs are going up. With the latest refresh of the Revo platform, Abu Garcia has had to adjust their prices accordingly. That means a bump in price for Revo5 X to $119.95. Considering how this reel performs and the composition of that drag at this price point, it's still a very good value. Of course, with three different options in gear ratio, the X remains a strong candidate if you're the type that likes their reels to match across multiple combos.

If you're looking for a cost effective way to experience all that is the new Revo5, X marks the spot

Conclusion: Abu Garcia has managed to recapture a lot of the endearing qualities of the original X platform in their Revo5 refresh. While the platform did not recapture an award this time around, I think it has more to do with the improvements the manufacturer has made to the X's sibling, the SX, than anything else. I do like the new look for X as a brighter, more attention grabbing reel, and as I continue to harp, that new, asymmetrical frame of the Revo5 is exceedingly comfortable nestled within the palm of my hand. Bottom line, if you're looking for a cost effective way to experience all that is the new Revo5, X marks the spot.

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