measuring freespool in lever drag

[maxpowers]

I have been meaning to ask this question for a while.  When we measure max drag before losing free spool, what is the definition of losing free spool?  Is it when shift into free spool, the spool cannot spin or is it when shift into free spool you have 2-3 revolutions? 

Thanks,

[alantani]

more the later.  the important thing is that you still have freespool at your desired drag setting, whatever that drag setting is. 

[jaypeegee]

Hi

Using the only 2 lever drag reels I own. An MXL and LX Avet

I have previously, with the reels in free spool, tightened the drag til the reel just begins to be feathered in the bait position.
That is tightened to where the reel has a small amount of resistance and no longer free spools.

However, This is far too much drag for what I consider a fishable state

A better state for me is setting the drag at about 80% of stated max at sunset using a rod and a couple of metres drop of line from rod tip per reel

Noting that I don't fish big line or target monsters on these.
10Kg mono on the MXL and 25Kg mono with similar braid backing on the LX

This may not be optimum but I figured if I add this it will give a different insight for you Max.
And if I am incorrect then I will be corrected.

[maxpowers]

Thanks everyone.  My purpose is just to get the definition right so that when I measure free spool time and max drag, it would be consistent with what everyone is talking about.  So my take away is that the spool have to revolve at least several times to consider to still be in free spool.  Obviously I would never fished at the max drag.  I wanted to answer this question to see if the mods I am doing on the Metaloid is worth it or not.

Thanks,