Anyone know what the T stands for on the Penn internationals?

[FatTuna]

I've read two different things on the internet: the T stands for tournament; or, the T stands for tubular frame. Can anyone confirm what it actually means. There is an 80T, 80TW, 80SW, 80STW, 80S, 80ST, 80VSW, lol. I can't figure out which one is the one I should get. I know the W stands for wide, the V stand for 5th generation, and the S stands for two speed. What does the T mean? Thanks guys.

[Tightlines667]

Both are correct.  The first T series to be released were dubbed 'Tournament' reels, and they featured 1-piece 'tubular' frames.  If you want a 2 speed I recommend finding a used STW (2-speed, Tubular wide frame/spool).  What size reel are you looking for?  I personally like the second and 3rd gen reels over the newer VSW/VSX models.  I think the 80STW is the best of the bunch you listed.  Just make sure its in relatively good condition corrosion wise, since the bridges can be difficult to remove (to replace drive shaft bearings) on heavily corroded/older models.  For your reference, the first 2 numbers in the serial number will tell you the year of manufacture.  So anything made after 2000 designated '00','01', etc... is what you want.

[FatTuna]

Hi Tightlines, I'm going to be using the reels hopefully for some giant bluefin.

In regards to size, I definitely need the wide. I prefer the two speed but cost is a limiting factor. I think I'm going to stay away from the Tiagra 80 because it doesn't have the removable reel stand.

I plan to avoid the new ones. Partly because of their reputation but also because I like a good project. I like the look and style of the international IIs the best.

What exactly is a tubular frame? I can't determine the difference between the 80SW and the 80STW. I read on here that the 80SW requires some kind of cam/gear alignment trick. Is there anything actually different in regards to the frames?

[Tightlines667]

No, the 1 piece frames are all the same.  The 80SW does require gear alignment, and has a bit more finnicky 2-speed mech...more moving parts, high speed main needs to slign in 2 places both in high snd low speed.  I prefer the simplier STWs in the 80 size reel.   The Tiagras are good reels as well.

[FatTuna]

Thanks for that write up. That helps a lot. I haven't ruled out the Tiagra 80 yet. I'm just weighing my options and the long term costs. I'll let you know how it goes .

[Rothmar2]

x2 for the 80STW, if you can get one in good condition. Simplistically beautiful.
They are a much more robustly constructed reel than the similar sized Tiagra.
Bigger bearings, thicker spool shaft, and no plastic sauna attached to the right side plate.

[coastal_dan]

Some decent looking units on ebay...

http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=p2050601.m570.l1313.TR2.TRC1.A0.H0.Xpenn+80+stw.TRS0&_nkw=penn+80+stw&_sacat=0

I've purchased a reel from Hongchoee and was very happy with the transaction (he has the 1st one shown).

[theswimmer]

Shameless self promotion!  http://alantani.com/index.php?topic=13856.0
I know they are not "T" models but the price is right.
I think I can get Fred to give you an opinion on condition if you like.
Or better photos on demand.
Best,
Jonathan

[FatTuna]

Hi, I appreciate the offer on the 80 but I definitely want the full frame. The price is certainly right. I bet if you up that on Ebay you will get more for it.