Got this as a Xmas Gift from my brother, my son al
- Thread starter neilg
- Start date
[align=left]Im not sure if Im allowed to do this, but anyway.... Heres the best microlite setup 
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Tech Tackle precision reels and rods are sure to bring a smile to any angler
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Date:
1/1/06
Tackle type:
Reels/Rods
Manufacturer:
Tech Tackle
Reviewer:
Zander
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Total Score: 8.50
Introduction: Looking to add a little fishing flair to your everyday life? Tech Tackle makes a series of products that you just have to see to believe. By partnering up with some key manufacturers Tech Tackle is able to bring the fishing experience right to your desktop. This is one of those reviews where we just have to let the pictures do the talking.
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[align=center]The unmistakable finish of the Quantum Energy PTI is a fan favorite[/align]
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Impressions: Could we have been any more vague in our introduction? Before we actually get into the specifics take a look at some of the following rods and reels and then go on to page 2 to see exactly what Tech Tackle is offering.[/align]
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[align=center]Quantum showed they were serious about low profile baitcasters when they introduced the Energy PT X-Metal[/align]
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[align=center]Abu Garcia Morrums have a die-hard following among anglers that like the power and line capacity that comes with traditional round reels[/align]
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[align=center]The Cabo was Quantum's best new conventional saltwater offering last season[/align]
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[align=center]A close-up of the attractive Cabo PTS rod [/align]
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[align=center]Many fly anglers looking for a great "bang for the buck" fly setup choose the Martin Mohawk River [/align]
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Impressions cont'd: Notice anything about the reels and rods on the first page of the review? Would it be a surprise if I told you that all of the reels were smaller than a US Quarter in size? That's right, these are extremely detailed miniatures. Tech Tackle has partnered up with a number of manufacturers including Pure Fishing, Zebco/Quantum, and Martin to produce licensed exact working replicas. These precision rod and reel combos feature die-cast metal frames, working gears, Stren Line, and even a genuine Eagle Claw mini hook. On top of that each reel is paired with a tiny branded rod with realistic action as well. Lets take a closer look at the Quantum Energy PTI which comes paired with a Tour Edition PT rod.
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[align=center]The Energy E30 PTI comes paired with a Tour Edition PT rod[/align]
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[align=center]The reel is about the size of a quarter[/align]
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[align=center]Notice the detail of the reel seat[/align]
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[align=center]The bail opens to allow line to spool off[/align]
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[align=center]Talk about detail, we found the Performance Tuned insert exactly where it should be[/align]
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[align=left]Quantum Energy & Tour Edition PT: The Quantum PTi miniature is among the most striking in the lineup. Its amazing how good of a job Tech tackle did on replicating the muti-color Titanium finish. It is possible to actually cast this miniature as long as you add a little split shot to the end of the line. It is very cool how you can flip up the bail. There is no bail return mechanism so you have to flip the bail down yourself. Retrieves on this and the rest of the miniatures isn't smooth like the real thing. Instead a multi-click gear winds and holds the line in place. The reason that the spinning versions can actually be cast is that line can peel off the spool freely while this cannot be done on casting versions, which the spool is permanently bound to the gearing. The Energy PTI is one of my favorite in the series, and looks great to the display. The only downside is it is definitely more fragile than the casting reels.[/align]
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Energy PT-XMetal: The first time I saw the real Quantum Energy PT-Xmetal I remarked how cool the Titanium multi-colored highlights were on the reel. It is nice to see that Tech Tackle has brought this over to their precision miniature. While this finish won't see to change color in different light like the real thing, it does give you reasonable facsimile of the effect. Of all the Tech Tackle rigs I have seen this is my favorite. The reel is very small, with the body actually smaller than a dime in size. The Tour Edition PT rod looks great, especially the handles and reel seat. On this reel you can't cast and like all the other eels the drag star doesn't move, but you can retrieve. The reel clicks as you release and retrieve line, keeping tension on the spool at all times. No backlashes here.
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[align=center]Are you a baitcasting fan? The Energy PT X-Metal looks cool in "mini" size[/align]
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[align=center]This reel is tiny, well under a Quarter in size[/align]
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[align=center]Gloss on the Quantum Tour Edition rod[/align]
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[align=center]The action of the rod is pretty realistic[/align]
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[align=center]Yes these guides are actually wound on. Also notice the replica Eagle Claw hook[/align]
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[align=center]Dwarfed by the real thing[/align]
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[align=center]Try thumbing this reel[/align]
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[align=center]Even the handle grips are ergonomically shaped like the real thing[/align]
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[align=left]I couldn't stop smiling as we were taking pictures of this miniature side by side the original. While the reel looks a tad bit longer and thinner than the real thing, Tech Tackle has still done a fine job capturing that "mini-me" feel with this particular setup. [/align]
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Abu Garcia Morrum: When it comes to round reels none are more recognizable than the clean looking Abu Garcia Morrums. Tech tackle has miniaturized a Morrum M6600CL and paired it with a Lighting Rod for a combo sure to please Pure Fishing fans. While we couldn't get much movement out of the Tour Edition rod's reel seats the Lightingrod was a totally different story. This reel seat works and you can actually remove the reel completely from the rod. Every one of these reels has very authentic looking logos, and the details on the rods are breathtaking. On this Lightingrod the logo was so small I didn't even notice it until I got the combo outside in the light.
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[align=center]Abu Fans are not left out[/align]
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[align=center]The profile shows the reel seated very similarly to the real thing[/align]
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[align=center]Check out the blank through[/align]
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[align=center]While the clutch bar doesn't really move it is cool to assume the casting position[/align]
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[align=center]As a bonus with the Pure Fishing models you get a miniature Berkley Fire Tiger plug[/align]
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[align=left]As an added bonus with the Pure Fishing models you will get a Berkley lure which you can actually tie on the line. The Treble hooks look cool, and when the rod is displayed upright and the lure is hanging from the line the combo looks very complete. A very nice overall package.
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Mitchell 300X Gold: The Mitchell 300X spinning reel is a faithful reproduction of the original all the way down to the wooden handle. Like the Abu the 300X comes mounted on a Berkley Lighting Rod, which also has a real working reel seat. This rod is also the only one that has a wound on hook hanger on the rod. The gold finish on this reel is attractive and Tech Tackle does an especially good job replicating the unique looking Mitchell handle. I also found the bail on this spinning reel less prone to damage than the one on the Quantum PTI. This setup also comes with the bonus Berkley mini lure.
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[align=center]The Mitchell 300X Gold reel on a Lighting Rod[/align]
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[align=center]It is possible to completely remove the reel and examine it from all angles[/align]
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[align=center]While there is no drag the settings are there[/align]
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[align=center]A closer look at the Berkley Lightingrod reel seat[/align]
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[align=left]Moving on past mini bass gear: At this point you may be wondering if you could actually catch a fish with one of these setups. The answer is "it is possible." It is feasible to put a petite salmon egg on a real hook and dangle some bait into a rocky stream and try and pull out a brook trout. Casting is only possible with the spinning versions, and we actually tested the gearing which was capable of only lifting 2.1oz of dry weight before slipping. This means you will have to use your fingers to pull in line at the same time. While it is "possible" to catch a petite fish, that tiny brook trout is going to feel like a Yellowfin Tuna on the end of the line on one of these rigs. You are far better letting your imagination run wild as you retrieve paperclips and erasers across the surface of your desk.
Thus far the actions of the rods have all been impressive. Both the Quantum PT and Berkley Lightingrod feel light and responsive, as bass gear should. The rods are not actually constructed out of graphite but they sure look and feel like it. As we turned our attention to the heavier saltwater offering we were eager to see if any effort was taken to really differentiate the "feel" of the saltwater version from the freshwater rods.
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Quantum Cabo CNW30PTS: While the Quantum Energy PT XMetal may have been my favorite overall the Cabo is by far the most detailed. The reel looks like the real thing, and the gearing feels the most solid. There is a moving freespool lever but it is just present for cosmetic reasons. What puts this combo over the top is the Cabo PTS mini rod. The rod is the most detailed rod of the series, and it also has the most genuine action. Attention to detail on this rod is downright phenomenal. Tech Tackle got the colors and logos just right, and the guide work is so good its not even funny. It is as if they somehow managed to shrink the real thing. The rod makes use of soft rubber to mimic hypalon grips, and even has an oversized rubber gimbal cap. If you really wanted to catch a innow or goldfish with one of these combos you would have the best chance with this outfit.
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[align=center]The smallest Quantum offshore reel you will ever see[/align]
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[align=center]Also about the size of a dime[/align]
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[align=center]Close up shot of the reel seat and rubber grips[/align]
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[align=center]The threadwork on the Cabo PTS rod is exceptional[/align]
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[align=center]The guides on the Cabo PTS are a dead ringer for the real thing[/align]
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Mohawk River 78: Yes, there is even a miniature fly rod and reel outfit for fly fishing buffs. Like all the other Tech Tackle reels the martin Mohawk River 78 is die-cast metal and features a working gear. The clicking gear inside the Mohawk reel is especially satisfying because it sounds like a real fly reel when you strip line off the reel. The MR97 miniature fly rod is to scale as well and longer than any of the pother miniature rods, in fact it is the only two piece rod in the series. The two sections even connect via an inner ferrule. The reel seat on the rod is also very well implemented, and features a metal set screw and a neatly painted seat to stimulate the birch insert. As a final nice touch fly line is simulated with fluorescent mono.
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[align=center]The die-cast Mohawk reel is loaded with fluorescent mono to simulate fly line[/align]
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[align=center]Porting is done on both sides of the spool[/align]
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[align=center]The backside of the Mohawk River MR78[/align]
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[align=center]This two piece fly rod even has a inner ferrule design[/align]
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[align=center]Connected this rod is longer than any of the other rods, as a real fly rod should be[/align]
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[align=center]A close up of one of the wrapped guides[/align]
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[align=left]If you pinch the Mohawk grip between your fingers and proceed to go through the casting motion with your wrist the rod actually does feel like a small fly rod. The action of the rod is very realistic and while you can't actually shoot your line it is pretty entertaining to flail the minute hook back and forth. This combo would have really been impressive if they bundled a minuscule fly with it.
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A multi-purpose package: So your done playing with your mini rod and reel outfit, now what do you do? Tech Tackle sells the mini outfits in a clever package that has components that actually double as a nifty little display stand. These outfits come tied down in protective plastic cases, the bottom and top of these cases pop out and connect to one another forming the base for the stand, while a bundled angled piece of plastic then attaches to form a holding arm. The arm holds the reels at 60 degrees. The spinning gear looks better displayed as gravity hangs the rig neatly in place. The Cabo can be held in the upright position simply because the handle is so large, but the Abu Morrum and Quantum PT-XM rotate to the side or downwards.
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[align=center]All combos come in a protective tube[/align]
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[align=center]You don't want to throw this package away, the top and bottom form the base of a display stand[/align]
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[align=center]Each reel also comes with a display arm which connects to the base[/align]
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[align=center]The three components that form each display stand[/align]
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[align=center]Tension is enough to hold the two sections together[/align]
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[align=center]A display stand is ready to holster a combo[/align]
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[align=center]The Cabo's grip is thick enough to hold the outfit upright[/align]
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[align=center]While the spinning gear will hang the baitcasting outfits will rotate to the side in the holster, but they still look good[/align]
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[align=left]Ratings: (as best we could)[/align]
[align=center]Tech Tackle Collectible General Ratings (?/10)[/align]
Construction/Quality
While I have seen some mini reels with similar quality none have been branded and miniaturized with such attention to detail. The rods actually feature wound on guides. A very nicely constructed package
9
Performance
Hmmm. a hard rating here. While we can't really rate these against full size reels it would really be cool if you could actually cast the baitcasting models. Overall the gearing is impressive and it is fun cranking these back and forth
7
Price
Are they worth 12.99? Yes absolutely. They make a great conversation piece for your office
9
Features
These combos are feature rich for miniatures. I still can't get over the action of some of these rods and the wound on guides look great!
9
Design (Ergonomics)
Ergonomically these tiny outfits mimic their real counterparts well
9
Application
While you shouldn't be out fishing for anything bigger than a goldfish with one of these rigs they make fantastic gifts, and are sure to make any angler smile
8
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8.5
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Conclusion: I couldn't help but grin when I first saw these lifelike mini collectibles. These tiny reels feature quality die-cast metal construction, and the details on the rods include wound on guides and authentic scaled logos. Real line and working gearing completes the package nicely. Availability is increasing and they are or will be available at Boaters World, Sportsman's Warehouse, Sports Authority, Cabela's, and Bass Pro Shops. Each combo will retail for $12.99 which is pretty reasonable for a collectible of this quality. The product we reviewed is just a sampling of the "Series 1" offerings. There should be more collectibles on the way shortly including a Abu Garcia Torno baitcaster and inshore Ambassadeur, and we might even see a Van Staal reel in the future. Tech Tackle may not offer the typical "tackle" that you will find reviewed here on TT, but they sure brought smiles to our faces, and are sure to do the same for many an angler looking to brighten up their home or office desk real estate. When you can't be out fishing, having one of these entertaining doodads on your desk at the office or at home will serve as a constant reminder of just why you are toiling away. [/align]
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Tech Tackle precision reels and rods are sure to bring a smile to any angler
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Date:
1/1/06
Tackle type:
Reels/Rods
Manufacturer:
Tech Tackle
Reviewer:
Zander
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Total Score: 8.50
Introduction: Looking to add a little fishing flair to your everyday life? Tech Tackle makes a series of products that you just have to see to believe. By partnering up with some key manufacturers Tech Tackle is able to bring the fishing experience right to your desktop. This is one of those reviews where we just have to let the pictures do the talking.
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[align=center]The unmistakable finish of the Quantum Energy PTI is a fan favorite[/align]
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Impressions: Could we have been any more vague in our introduction? Before we actually get into the specifics take a look at some of the following rods and reels and then go on to page 2 to see exactly what Tech Tackle is offering.[/align]
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[align=center]Quantum showed they were serious about low profile baitcasters when they introduced the Energy PT X-Metal[/align]
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[align=center]Abu Garcia Morrums have a die-hard following among anglers that like the power and line capacity that comes with traditional round reels[/align]
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[align=center]The Cabo was Quantum's best new conventional saltwater offering last season[/align]
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[align=center]A close-up of the attractive Cabo PTS rod [/align]
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[align=center]Many fly anglers looking for a great "bang for the buck" fly setup choose the Martin Mohawk River [/align]
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Impressions cont'd: Notice anything about the reels and rods on the first page of the review? Would it be a surprise if I told you that all of the reels were smaller than a US Quarter in size? That's right, these are extremely detailed miniatures. Tech Tackle has partnered up with a number of manufacturers including Pure Fishing, Zebco/Quantum, and Martin to produce licensed exact working replicas. These precision rod and reel combos feature die-cast metal frames, working gears, Stren Line, and even a genuine Eagle Claw mini hook. On top of that each reel is paired with a tiny branded rod with realistic action as well. Lets take a closer look at the Quantum Energy PTI which comes paired with a Tour Edition PT rod. [/align]
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[align=center]The Energy E30 PTI comes paired with a Tour Edition PT rod[/align]
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[align=center]The reel is about the size of a quarter[/align]
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[align=center]Notice the detail of the reel seat[/align]
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[align=center]The bail opens to allow line to spool off[/align]
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[align=center]Talk about detail, we found the Performance Tuned insert exactly where it should be[/align]
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[align=left]Quantum Energy & Tour Edition PT: The Quantum PTi miniature is among the most striking in the lineup. Its amazing how good of a job Tech tackle did on replicating the muti-color Titanium finish. It is possible to actually cast this miniature as long as you add a little split shot to the end of the line. It is very cool how you can flip up the bail. There is no bail return mechanism so you have to flip the bail down yourself. Retrieves on this and the rest of the miniatures isn't smooth like the real thing. Instead a multi-click gear winds and holds the line in place. The reason that the spinning versions can actually be cast is that line can peel off the spool freely while this cannot be done on casting versions, which the spool is permanently bound to the gearing. The Energy PTI is one of my favorite in the series, and looks great to the display. The only downside is it is definitely more fragile than the casting reels.[/align]
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Energy PT-XMetal: The first time I saw the real Quantum Energy PT-Xmetal I remarked how cool the Titanium multi-colored highlights were on the reel. It is nice to see that Tech Tackle has brought this over to their precision miniature. While this finish won't see to change color in different light like the real thing, it does give you reasonable facsimile of the effect. Of all the Tech Tackle rigs I have seen this is my favorite. The reel is very small, with the body actually smaller than a dime in size. The Tour Edition PT rod looks great, especially the handles and reel seat. On this reel you can't cast and like all the other eels the drag star doesn't move, but you can retrieve. The reel clicks as you release and retrieve line, keeping tension on the spool at all times. No backlashes here. [/align]
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[align=center]Are you a baitcasting fan? The Energy PT X-Metal looks cool in "mini" size[/align]
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[align=center]This reel is tiny, well under a Quarter in size[/align]
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[align=center]Gloss on the Quantum Tour Edition rod[/align]
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[align=center]The action of the rod is pretty realistic[/align]
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[align=center]Yes these guides are actually wound on. Also notice the replica Eagle Claw hook[/align]
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[align=center]Dwarfed by the real thing[/align]
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[align=center]Try thumbing this reel[/align]
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[align=center]Even the handle grips are ergonomically shaped like the real thing[/align]
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[align=left]I couldn't stop smiling as we were taking pictures of this miniature side by side the original. While the reel looks a tad bit longer and thinner than the real thing, Tech Tackle has still done a fine job capturing that "mini-me" feel with this particular setup. [/align]
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Abu Garcia Morrum: When it comes to round reels none are more recognizable than the clean looking Abu Garcia Morrums. Tech tackle has miniaturized a Morrum M6600CL and paired it with a Lighting Rod for a combo sure to please Pure Fishing fans. While we couldn't get much movement out of the Tour Edition rod's reel seats the Lightingrod was a totally different story. This reel seat works and you can actually remove the reel completely from the rod. Every one of these reels has very authentic looking logos, and the details on the rods are breathtaking. On this Lightingrod the logo was so small I didn't even notice it until I got the combo outside in the light. [/align]
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[align=center]Abu Fans are not left out[/align]
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[align=center]The profile shows the reel seated very similarly to the real thing[/align]
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[align=center]Check out the blank through[/align]
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[align=center]While the clutch bar doesn't really move it is cool to assume the casting position[/align]
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[align=center]As a bonus with the Pure Fishing models you get a miniature Berkley Fire Tiger plug[/align]
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[align=left]As an added bonus with the Pure Fishing models you will get a Berkley lure which you can actually tie on the line. The Treble hooks look cool, and when the rod is displayed upright and the lure is hanging from the line the combo looks very complete. A very nice overall package.
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Mitchell 300X Gold: The Mitchell 300X spinning reel is a faithful reproduction of the original all the way down to the wooden handle. Like the Abu the 300X comes mounted on a Berkley Lighting Rod, which also has a real working reel seat. This rod is also the only one that has a wound on hook hanger on the rod. The gold finish on this reel is attractive and Tech Tackle does an especially good job replicating the unique looking Mitchell handle. I also found the bail on this spinning reel less prone to damage than the one on the Quantum PTI. This setup also comes with the bonus Berkley mini lure.[/align]
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[align=center]The Mitchell 300X Gold reel on a Lighting Rod[/align]
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[align=center]It is possible to completely remove the reel and examine it from all angles[/align]
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[align=center]While there is no drag the settings are there[/align]
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[align=center]A closer look at the Berkley Lightingrod reel seat[/align]
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[align=left]Moving on past mini bass gear: At this point you may be wondering if you could actually catch a fish with one of these setups. The answer is "it is possible." It is feasible to put a petite salmon egg on a real hook and dangle some bait into a rocky stream and try and pull out a brook trout. Casting is only possible with the spinning versions, and we actually tested the gearing which was capable of only lifting 2.1oz of dry weight before slipping. This means you will have to use your fingers to pull in line at the same time. While it is "possible" to catch a petite fish, that tiny brook trout is going to feel like a Yellowfin Tuna on the end of the line on one of these rigs. You are far better letting your imagination run wild as you retrieve paperclips and erasers across the surface of your desk.
Thus far the actions of the rods have all been impressive. Both the Quantum PT and Berkley Lightingrod feel light and responsive, as bass gear should. The rods are not actually constructed out of graphite but they sure look and feel like it. As we turned our attention to the heavier saltwater offering we were eager to see if any effort was taken to really differentiate the "feel" of the saltwater version from the freshwater rods.
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Quantum Cabo CNW30PTS: While the Quantum Energy PT XMetal may have been my favorite overall the Cabo is by far the most detailed. The reel looks like the real thing, and the gearing feels the most solid. There is a moving freespool lever but it is just present for cosmetic reasons. What puts this combo over the top is the Cabo PTS mini rod. The rod is the most detailed rod of the series, and it also has the most genuine action. Attention to detail on this rod is downright phenomenal. Tech Tackle got the colors and logos just right, and the guide work is so good its not even funny. It is as if they somehow managed to shrink the real thing. The rod makes use of soft rubber to mimic hypalon grips, and even has an oversized rubber gimbal cap. If you really wanted to catch a innow or goldfish with one of these combos you would have the best chance with this outfit. [/align]
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[align=center]The smallest Quantum offshore reel you will ever see[/align]
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[align=center]Also about the size of a dime[/align]
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[align=center]Close up shot of the reel seat and rubber grips[/align]
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[align=center]The threadwork on the Cabo PTS rod is exceptional[/align]
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[align=center]The guides on the Cabo PTS are a dead ringer for the real thing[/align]
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Mohawk River 78: Yes, there is even a miniature fly rod and reel outfit for fly fishing buffs. Like all the other Tech Tackle reels the martin Mohawk River 78 is die-cast metal and features a working gear. The clicking gear inside the Mohawk reel is especially satisfying because it sounds like a real fly reel when you strip line off the reel. The MR97 miniature fly rod is to scale as well and longer than any of the pother miniature rods, in fact it is the only two piece rod in the series. The two sections even connect via an inner ferrule. The reel seat on the rod is also very well implemented, and features a metal set screw and a neatly painted seat to stimulate the birch insert. As a final nice touch fly line is simulated with fluorescent mono. [/align]
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[align=center]The die-cast Mohawk reel is loaded with fluorescent mono to simulate fly line[/align]
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[align=center]Porting is done on both sides of the spool[/align]
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[align=center]The backside of the Mohawk River MR78[/align]
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[align=center]This two piece fly rod even has a inner ferrule design[/align]
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[align=center]Connected this rod is longer than any of the other rods, as a real fly rod should be[/align]
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[align=center]A close up of one of the wrapped guides[/align]
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[align=left]If you pinch the Mohawk grip between your fingers and proceed to go through the casting motion with your wrist the rod actually does feel like a small fly rod. The action of the rod is very realistic and while you can't actually shoot your line it is pretty entertaining to flail the minute hook back and forth. This combo would have really been impressive if they bundled a minuscule fly with it.
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A multi-purpose package: So your done playing with your mini rod and reel outfit, now what do you do? Tech Tackle sells the mini outfits in a clever package that has components that actually double as a nifty little display stand. These outfits come tied down in protective plastic cases, the bottom and top of these cases pop out and connect to one another forming the base for the stand, while a bundled angled piece of plastic then attaches to form a holding arm. The arm holds the reels at 60 degrees. The spinning gear looks better displayed as gravity hangs the rig neatly in place. The Cabo can be held in the upright position simply because the handle is so large, but the Abu Morrum and Quantum PT-XM rotate to the side or downwards. [/align]
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[align=center]All combos come in a protective tube[/align]
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[align=center]You don't want to throw this package away, the top and bottom form the base of a display stand[/align]
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[align=center]Each reel also comes with a display arm which connects to the base[/align]
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[align=center]The three components that form each display stand[/align]
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[align=center]Tension is enough to hold the two sections together[/align]
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[align=center]A display stand is ready to holster a combo[/align]
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[align=center]The Cabo's grip is thick enough to hold the outfit upright[/align]
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[align=center]While the spinning gear will hang the baitcasting outfits will rotate to the side in the holster, but they still look good[/align]
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[align=left]Ratings: (as best we could)[/align]
[align=center]Tech Tackle Collectible General Ratings (?/10)[/align]
Construction/Quality
While I have seen some mini reels with similar quality none have been branded and miniaturized with such attention to detail. The rods actually feature wound on guides. A very nicely constructed package
9
Performance
Hmmm. a hard rating here. While we can't really rate these against full size reels it would really be cool if you could actually cast the baitcasting models. Overall the gearing is impressive and it is fun cranking these back and forth
7
Price
Are they worth 12.99? Yes absolutely. They make a great conversation piece for your office
9
Features
These combos are feature rich for miniatures. I still can't get over the action of some of these rods and the wound on guides look great!
9
Design (Ergonomics)
Ergonomically these tiny outfits mimic their real counterparts well
9
Application
While you shouldn't be out fishing for anything bigger than a goldfish with one of these rigs they make fantastic gifts, and are sure to make any angler smile
8
[align=right]Total Score[/align]
8.5
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Conclusion: I couldn't help but grin when I first saw these lifelike mini collectibles. These tiny reels feature quality die-cast metal construction, and the details on the rods include wound on guides and authentic scaled logos. Real line and working gearing completes the package nicely. Availability is increasing and they are or will be available at Boaters World, Sportsman's Warehouse, Sports Authority, Cabela's, and Bass Pro Shops. Each combo will retail for $12.99 which is pretty reasonable for a collectible of this quality. The product we reviewed is just a sampling of the "Series 1" offerings. There should be more collectibles on the way shortly including a Abu Garcia Torno baitcaster and inshore Ambassadeur, and we might even see a Van Staal reel in the future. Tech Tackle may not offer the typical "tackle" that you will find reviewed here on TT, but they sure brought smiles to our faces, and are sure to do the same for many an angler looking to brighten up their home or office desk real estate. When you can't be out fishing, having one of these entertaining doodads on your desk at the office or at home will serve as a constant reminder of just why you are toiling away. [/align]