I have a Mitchell 308 with a worn notch where the retainer holds it in the flipped position. The corner was rounded and wouldn't hold, and attempting to file carefully only helped a little. The corner is now sharp, but the opening is too big for the retainer to hold it during a cast. I'm thinking of clipping the wire right at the line guide to make it bailless,then adding counterweights. Anyone tried this on a 308? I figure that worst case I can replace the bail later, but at least it'd be fishable for now.
One of many on this site https://alantani.com/index.php?topic=30929.0
Those are valuable and well made ultralight reels that I would hesitate to start cutting into.
But that is your call. Typically, we have good intentions to do something later —- but oftentimes years pass.
I could send you a bail for $10.
Best, Fred
The 308 is a classic. If it was me, I'd replace the bail with Fred's offer.
Unless I planned on keeping and using a 308 with a PUM (only because I reallyliked using it) I would never convert or change a 308 bail pickup. :o