Working on this cute little reel. First time.
What year would this be?
I've never seen dating tables for Mitchell 304 or 305 reels. The table below, lists the number of Mitchell 304 & 305 models made each year.
This site https://mitchellcap.info/ has the most information on the round body Mitchell's that I've seen.
Well, that narrows it down lol
Thanks. I thought it might have been a little more unique.
Thanks. Appreciate you finding this
Post 1957 if it doesn't have Cap on the non-handle side. Is the oscillation block metal or nylon, tough to tell with all the grease on it?
The only nylon part was the round piece I think you're referring to as the oscillation block.
Really good restore & service, Larry!
Best, Fred
If it helps you, I would estimate the reel was probably manufactured sometime after CAP reels (1957) and before planomatic gearing was introduced to the Mitchel 304s. My guess is planomatic gearing was probably introduced to the 304/305s in the early 1960s.
I'd estimate that reel was manufactured 1958-1962. The reason that I think it might be 1962, is that there was a surge of them manufactured that year. However, that might be due the Garcia name addition and their marketing efforts.
Tommy might have a idea on when Garcia was added.
I have gotten rid of the vast bulk of my Mitchells but I keep a 304 at each house, I just really like the way these reels feel and behave and they're dead-nuts simple mechanically.
Here's an older "CAP" I got from foakes. Was wondering about that little 4-pronged springy unit on the bottom-side of the spindle click gear. What is it for(third picture)? What needs spring action, the click gear?, the spool? And why?
Another close-up.