Many historic reels have handle arms that are curved like a mild "s". More modern reels leave out the counterbalance side. A few have arms that have no curve at all. Is there any mechanical advantage to a curved handle, assuming straight distance from mounting hole to handle center remains the same?
I'd say it's just artistic or cosmetic or both. Rudy
It's to bring the handle knob closer to the centerline of the reel. Making it easier to reel in a large fish.
Mike
To bring it closer to the certerline you have to shorten the distance from the center of the pivot point to the center of the handle. Otherwise the leverage is the same. Handle length is measured from center to center disregarding any curve.
It makes it easier to stabilize the rod if you are closer to the centerline.
Mike
Mike, I think you are getting confused with an offset handle which if offset toward the center of the reel would cause less twist of the rod & reel when reeling under heavy load.
:D :D :D :D ;D ;D ;D ;D :D :D :D :D ... Jeff