Well I had to go buy one so here it is.
Seals everywhere just like the SSV. Bronze main gear that has some weight to it. Bearings and anti reverse system typical of Penn reels. The bearings have a white colored grease. Bronze crosswind gear also. I'll look and see if it has a bushing as typical or a bearing. It will have a bearing when I'm done.
Very common anti reverse bearing used in many, many reels like the Shimano Torium.
The body, spool, and rotor are very thick and heavy.
I really like the handle. Big, strong, and has a metal and EVA foam knob.
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Nice looking reel. I'm impressed with the look of the handle. Also, the gears look like they are quality. I bet it feels super smooth.
How would you rate the integrity of the housing and rotor? Is it similar to the SSV but just thicker?
I dont have a SSV in the shop to compare. I dont see how anything on this reel could break. The handle pivot pin is replaceable like the older reels. It's definitely heavier then I expected but that may be a good thing!
I will have to look up the weigh specs of this and other reels.
The 6500SSV is 21.3 ounces.
This reel is 24.3 ounces.
The 8500SS is 26 ounces.