Reel Repair by Alan Tani

Spinning Reel Rebuild Tutorials and Questions => Penn => Topic started by: Fishgolfman on June 12, 2020, 06:07:28 PM

Title: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: Fishgolfman on June 12, 2020, 06:07:28 PM
Noticed on the big auction board the high value of all the penn ss or z reels made in USA. Great reels as I have a half dozen workhorses In the ss class and all the z class. Was looking for a 420 ss...Why the value jump. Almost makes me want not to fish them and just store them.
Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: foakes on June 12, 2020, 06:36:55 PM
Nearly any quality small Microlite Spinners from one of the Proven manufacturers -- are in great demand.

This would include -- Penn, DAM Quick, Mitchell, ABU/Zebco Cardinals, and a few others.

These are very high quality reels that if manufactured today to the same standards and materials -- would be in the $250 to $300 range.

So they become a good value to use or collect -- as the value of these little reels with the same engineering as their big brothers -- is very desirable for knowledgeable anglers.

They are good investments.

Best,

Fred
Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: wfjord on June 12, 2020, 08:10:22 PM
Exactly as Fred said. Those 1st generation Penn greenie & Z spinfishers and the 2nd gen SS spinfishers are built so solidly that they last many decades.  Other than the plastic drag and handle knobs, they are all metal with strong gears --and have a cult following.  I still have and use all of those I bought brand new from tackle shops decades ago, in addition to quite a few others I got off ebay.

I've been watching prices of them regularly on the 'bay for several years and they definitely go through periods of fluctuation in demand, price, and availability.  I think what people say about them on various message boards has some degree of effect on demand, too. 

Still, I know far more fishermen who consider them archaic and want the latest, lightest new reels on the market with much higher retrieve ratios and infinite anti-reverse bearings (and lots of plastic).

A couple years ago, for purposes of my own, I made notes of sale prices over a six month period in 2017-2018 on 714 & 714z spinfishers.  The price on a 714 greenie ranged from $42 to $66 on the lower end, and $136 to $210 on the high end.  714Z prices during that period ranged from $51 to $95.  There's a price point I set for myself when I'm looking at any reel.  Ultimately it's what one can afford and how badly they want it, but in some cases those prices on ebay are pure extortion.  It's all relative, too ---compared to high quality vintage fly reels, those vintage Penn Spinfishers are huge bargains.

Finding a good reel on the auction bay for an acceptable price is ultimately a matter of selectivity, patience, and timing. And a willingness to raise the bar a bit on how much you're willing to spend.

Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: Alto Mare on June 12, 2020, 08:40:40 PM
Quote from: Fishgolfman on June 12, 2020, 06:07:28 PM
Noticed on the big auction board the high value of all the penn ss or z reels made in USA. Great reels as I have a half dozen workhorses In the ss class and all the z class. Was looking for a 420 ss...Why the value jump. Almost makes me want not to fish them and just store them.
You have good taste, the ones on the doors are SS models.
https://alantani.com/index.php?topic=1059.msg18377#msg18377
I also have all the Z series, except the 707Z.

Best,
Sal
Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: Cuttyhunker on June 12, 2020, 09:08:40 PM
Looks like my old Penn 700 is going to last about two years longer than a rock, butt ugly on the outside well loved on the inside, the old girl still fishes every year.  Priceless!!
Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: Fishgolfman on June 15, 2020, 11:13:02 AM
Thanks for all the suggestions and comments. BTW I don't have a 707Z , my bad. Did not know of its existence. Probably need to buy a Penn book on vintage penn reels as well, if I collect them. I just am leaning to fish them..braid is great on the reels too..I don't use anything great than 30lb power pro on the reels of 712-716 series as well.
Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: Swami805 on June 15, 2020, 12:07:14 PM
The prices on Newells has gone up about 30% too with some getting some crazy numbers. Might be all these fisherman staying home and using their $ they would have spent fishing on gear. Next best thing to fishing is buying gear!
Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: Jenx on June 27, 2020, 10:08:44 PM
I just went on Ebay to see what my 430ss is going for. There is one at auction right now that is up $96. That thing will probably crack $100, and it's not NOS, nor does it come with its original box.

That's a lot of money for an ultralight reel that is over 30 years old. I doubt I'd spend that much money on a modern trout/pan fish reel.
Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: foakes on June 27, 2020, 10:28:06 PM
Quote from: Jenx on June 27, 2020, 10:08:44 PM
I just went on Ebay to see what my 430ss is going for. There is one at auction right now that is up $96. That thing will probably crack $100, and it's not NOS, nor does it come with its original box.

That's a lot of money for an ultralight reel that is over 30 years old. I doubt I'd spend that much money on a modern trout/pan fish reel.

That might be true, Jenz --

But it is also true that the tough little 430 - 420 size reels will still be bringing in the fish -- when the new Tupperware plastic marvels will be buried in a landfill.

Materials, parts availability, engineering, simplicity, and proven capability for generations -- is what separates the drama of has-beens and wanna-be slick reels -- from a trusted old friend.

As we get the chance to restore, service, and use these old Penns -- and other quality brands from the 60's - 70's - 80's -- we could realize that the cheapest reel is not always the best reel.

There is a reason why that old Penn 430 is around $100 -- the bidders know the reason.

IMO.

Best,

Fred
Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: Bryan Young on June 27, 2020, 10:38:19 PM
Personally, I'd pick a Penn 420SS or 430SS over one of those expensive ultra smooth Shimano $200+ ultralight reel any day. It may not be as smooth but it will be fishable and live longer than my grandkids if take care of.
Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: Jenx on June 28, 2020, 08:49:43 PM
Quote from: foakes on June 27, 2020, 10:28:06 PM
Quote from: Jenx on June 27, 2020, 10:08:44 PM
I just went on Ebay to see what my 430ss is going for. There is one at auction right now that is up $96. That thing will probably crack $100, and it's not NOS, nor does it come with its original box.

That's a lot of money for an ultralight reel that is over 30 years old. I doubt I'd spend that much money on a modern trout/pan fish reel.

That might be true, Jenz --

But it is also true that the tough little 430 - 420 size reels will still be bringing in the fish -- when the new Tupperware plastic marvels will be buried in a landfill.

Materials, parts availability, engineering, simplicity, and proven capability for generations -- is what separates the drama of has-beens and wanna-be slick reels -- from a trusted old friend.

As we get the chance to restore, service, and use these old Penns -- and other quality brands from the 60's - 70's - 80's -- we could realize that the cheapest reel is not always the best reel.

There is a reason why that old Penn 430 is around $100 -- the bidders know the reason.

IMO.

Best,

Fred


You don't need to sell me on the durability of these old Penn reels. I own a 720 and a 430ss for a reason. But at what point does the price surpass the value? In my opinion these reels are no longer worth their inflated asking prices.

You mention these old reels are more durable than the cheap plastic reels commonly made today, and you would be correct. However, at the price these reels are going for now you can no longer compare them to cheap plastic spinners. The Penn Battle II reels are made of metal. These metal reels are smoother, cast better, are braid friendly, and have better drags. I mention the Penn Battle II because I can now buy a brand new one for cheaper than what that 430ss just sold for on ebay ($110).

Granted I would rather accidentally drop a 430ss into the ocean than a Battle, but I don't consider the 430 a saltwater reel, at least not for type of ocean fishing I do. The push button spool release the smaller 430ss and 420ss feature is a potential point of entry for salt and fine grains of sand to get into the drags, which is why I only use mine in freshwater.
Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: foakes on June 28, 2020, 09:10:13 PM
Everything you are stating is absolutely correct and true, Jenz --

I guess some of us just like using the older and simpler stuff we have enjoyed for a lifetime of fishing.

I also fish for enjoyment -- and have never used $$$ as a yardstick for evaluating the tackle that I prefer to use.

Lots of choices.

Best,

Fred



Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: Alto Mare on June 28, 2020, 09:39:49 PM
Quote
You mention these old reels are more durable than the cheap plastic reels commonly made today, and you would be correct. However, at the price these reels are going for now you can no longer compare them to cheap plastic spinners. The Penn Battle II reels are made of metal. These metal reels are smoother, cast better, are braid friendly, and have better drags. I mention the Penn Battle II because I can now buy a brand new one for cheaper than what that 430ss just sold for on ebay ($110)
Quote

I would not compare the Penn Battle II to the 430ss.
Can't judge a reel by its shell alone.

I mentioned a few years back to Steve at Penn why they don't run the spool shaft all the through the body and into a bushing at the rear, his answer was that it would be too costly.

I'm not knocking your Penn Battle II, I'm glad it is working out for you.
Any new reel you would purchase, no matter what the cost is, it will feel much smoother than the older reels, the only problem is that that smoothness is short lived.

I like the older reels better, but this is just my personal opinion.

Sal

Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: oc1 on June 29, 2020, 05:05:19 AM
Take a new reel out of the box and just go fishing?  Where's the challenge in that?
-steve
Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: Aiala on June 29, 2020, 03:29:33 PM
I have all the original SS models 420 thru 850... some NIB... BUT I have never been able to lay my hands on an all-metal 440SS. Supposedly they do exist, but if so, they're true unicorn unobtanium.  :P

~A~

Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: Gfish on June 29, 2020, 04:13:41 PM
The new-fangled, mid to high priced reels will function better for awhile when it comes to some things. Line rollers with bushings or bearings that really spin, smooth functioning multi-disc drags that may be sealed, ball bearings all over the place, ARB's for instant stop, light-weight graphite composite bodies and rotors, etc. But, will they last? Think; striped screws, corrosion in all those bearings, breakage when you drop 'em, non-steel/brass/aluminium gear wear.
Perhaps I shouldn't talk. I got tired of having water get into the drag systems on my spinners, every time I fished 'em. So I got one a those cheaper new age spinners cause the drag is sealed. Plastic rotor, too many bearings, main gear-some kinda zinc alloy or something. Function---yes!, but for how long? I'll spend time on maintenance(just don't like the drag cleaning), but things will wear out or break sooner than latter and I see myself in the future soaking ball bearings, etc. and ordering parts to keep it going...
Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: foakes on June 29, 2020, 04:29:04 PM
Good points, Greg --

For me, the question is always --

OK, which will fail first on these Composite Marvels -- the cheap metal screwheads or the actual coarse threaded holes that the screws fasten into?

These reels are generally good for a couple of services -- then their lifespan is over.

Has anyone ever noticed that the word "Composite" is similar to "Compost Pile"?  Coincidence?

Best,

Fred
Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: oc1 on June 29, 2020, 05:48:34 PM
I think there is a limit to the number of times any reel can be taken apart and reassembled.  It's the same with most stuff.  Try disassembling and cleaning your carburetor or washing machine every day and see what happens.  It is just going to wear out more quickly if you keep taking it apart.  

Metal screws into plastic or composite material without metal inserts will be the first thing to go.  Shimano does this with some of their smaller reels but they're still name brand and expensive reels.

Composite material has its advantages and its place.  If a modern reel could be made without plastic it would cost five times as much.  I'm all in favor of fishing being a more expensive and elitist activity but some would disagree.

The Penn Spinfisher greenies have been expensive and in high demand for decades.  Now the Z series are starting to catch up.  

-steve
Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: mo65 on June 29, 2020, 06:14:59 PM
Quote from: oc1 on June 29, 2020, 05:48:34 PM
The Penn Spinfisher greenies have been expensive and in high demand for decades.  Now the Z series are starting to catch up.  

   And the SS series also. And parts for all three series are becoming more and more scarce because...yes...parts on these reels do fail. I wish folks(myself included) would find other reels to fish, and save those parts for restorations. I still find it very interesting that you can buy three South Bend Classics for the price of one Spinfisher, and the Classic is actually the better built reel. :-\
Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: Jenx on June 29, 2020, 10:36:14 PM
In my original post about the 430, prior to rambling about the Penn Battle II, I said I thought $100+ was too much money to spend on what I consider an outdated, light tackle, freshwater reel.

Since then you guys have mentioned, corrosion, cheaper parts, lower quality of metal, etc. Now keep in mind I'm not trying to be argumentative here. I'm asking because I'm genuinely curious, but what does any of that have to do with a light tackle freshwater reels?

How important is the quality of the metal in a freshwater reel? How often do you actually need to open one up and give it a full cleaning? Again, I'm asking because I'm curious.
Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: foakes on June 29, 2020, 11:14:39 PM
Quote from: Jenx on June 29, 2020, 10:36:14 PM
You guys have mentioned, corrosion, cheaper parts, lower quality of metal, etc. Now keep in mind I'm not trying to be argumentative here. I'm asking because I'm genuinely curious, but what does any of that have to do with a light tackle freshwater reels?

Obviously...nothing, Andy

Best, Fred
Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: Gfish on June 29, 2020, 11:38:54 PM
I still find it very interesting that you can buy three South Bend Classics for the price of one Spinfisher, and the Classic is actually the better built reel. :-\[/color]
[/quote]

Mo, Shhhhhhh. You've found a gem in the rock pile. Ha! Kiddin dude. Doubt we'll see the price on South Bends go up. Though, ya never know...

Jenx, you'er mostly right, IMO. My guess would be 1 service/year on light fw spinners. Still, there may be more rust problems on cheap metal parts in the long run, even in fw. Composite rotors can break if the reel is dropped. Gear boxes can crack too. Cheap composite materials my not hold up to uv light exposure over time. Do you ever put excessive stress on a fw reel when you snag-up or, better yet, hook onea them unexpected big-uns? Too much pressure's godda be bad for the internal components supporting the spool shaft and gears.
Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: Midway Tommy on June 30, 2020, 04:07:00 AM
I stick with the older quality worm gear driven reels like fulcrum brake Cardinals, Shakespeares, Penns, Dams, etc. because even though I'm fishing a light or ultra light as intended, if I hook into one of Greg's big-uns, I would just as soon land it rather than end up with no fish and a pile of melted gook primed for trash can.  ;) 
Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: oc1 on June 30, 2020, 05:46:19 AM
I think a good test of any reel is to drop it in the sand, dunk it in saltwater to get the sand out, leave it lying around in a moist environment and see how long it takes to freeze up or start grinding.  Some were made for it and some weren't.
-steve
Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: Midway Tommy on June 30, 2020, 05:31:27 PM
Quote from: oc1 on June 30, 2020, 05:46:19 AM
I think a good test of any reel is to drop it in the sand, dunk it in saltwater to get the sand out, leave it lying around in a moist environment and see how long it takes to freeze up or start grinding.  Some were made for it and some weren't.
-steve

;) Most weren't made for that kind of abuse & neglect.  ;D
Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: Bryan Young on June 30, 2020, 06:44:40 PM
One thing that hasn't been addressed is the drag.  The Penn SS has one larger drag washer versus 2 little drag washers.  The Penn SS series ultralight reel, to me, has an a very smooth drag system as lower drag numbers, but can also be fished a little heavier if need to be without getting jerky like others.

I still have my 420SS that I picked up in high school for ultralight 1# test line fishing except now I fish 2# and 4# with 4# or 6# fluorocarbon leader.  My eyes and hands are not so good any more to tie such tiny line.
Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: wfjord on June 30, 2020, 06:57:33 PM
Quote from: Bryan Young on June 30, 2020, 06:44:40 PM
One thing that hasn't been addressed is the drag.  The Penn SS has one larger drag washer versus 2 little drag washers.

As does the 714Z & 716Z.
Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: Alto Mare on June 30, 2020, 09:37:03 PM
Also, keep in mind the Z series has zero wobble with spool and rotor.
One of the best reel in my opinion even better than some older models that were mentioned above.

But everyone has their own opinion and there isn't anything wrong with that.
The 714z and 716z have 6 lb of drag, one washer will do just fine.
The 420SS and 430SS are designed like the Z series... great reels.
The earlier 750SS had a ss pinion, everything was fine until they replaced it with a brass pinion.
A stainless steel shaft will eventually wear out the inner side of that pinion, but it takes time.
That is when the spool wobbles a little.

Sal
Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: Jenx on July 01, 2020, 05:19:03 AM
Quote from: oc1 on June 30, 2020, 05:46:19 AM
I think a good test of any reel is to drop it in the sand, dunk it in saltwater to get the sand out, leave it lying around in a moist environment and see how long it takes to freeze up or start grinding.  Some were made for it and some weren't.
-steve

My 720 (blue one) has passed that test. I did that this past fathers day weekend, and not for the first time. I dropped it in the sand Saturday morning. Dunked in the surf to clean it off, and then proceeded to fish it the rest of the morning. I just gave it a quick hose down when I got home, and then took it out the next morning and fished it again.

I'm not sure why this reel isn't getting more love than it does. It still sell for less than $50 (I'm pretty sure I got mine for $30). Looking at ebay's past listings this reel has the least value of all the Z series and SS series reels. Is that just because it's the only reel out of those two series that doesn't have any ball bearings? For me that's a selling point. One less part I have to worry about. I think part of my initial complaint about the price of the 430ss, is that I own one, bought it a few years ago before the prices started to inflate, and IMO it's not worth twice the price of the 720.

Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: oc1 on July 01, 2020, 05:51:37 AM
Quote from: Jenx on July 01, 2020, 05:19:03 AM
[720 (blue one) has passed that test..... I'm not sure why this reel isn't getting more love than it does.

I don't own and have never gotten down into the weeds with one.  The thing that made me uninterested is simply because it's not green or black/gold.  Yeah, stupidity.  They're sort of our there on their own.  A sleeping giant.

Speaking of desirably, why don't we ever hear from you about Curado E.
-steve
Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: wfjord on July 01, 2020, 11:11:23 AM
Quote from: Jenx on July 01, 2020, 05:19:03 AM
Quote from: oc1 on June 30, 2020, 05:46:19 AM
I think a good test of any reel is to drop it in the sand, dunk it in saltwater to get the sand out, leave it lying around in a moist environment and see how long it takes to freeze up or start grinding.  Some were made for it and some weren't.
-steve
My 720 (blue one) has passed that test. I did that this past fathers day weekend, and not for the first time. I dropped it in the sand Saturday morning. Dunked in the surf to clean it off, and then proceeded to fish it the rest of the morning. I just gave it a quick hose down when I got home, and then took it out the next morning and fished it again.

I'm not sure why this reel isn't getting more love than it does. It still sell for less than $50 (I'm pretty sure I got mine for $30). Looking at ebay's past listings this reel has the least value of all the Z series and SS series reels. Is that just because it's the only reel out of those two series that doesn't have any ball bearings? For me that's a selling point. One less part I have to worry about. I think part of my initial complaint about the price of the 430ss, is that I own one, bought it a few years ago before the prices started to inflate, and IMO it's not worth twice the price of the 720.

The 720 and 722 are rather different animals than the others in the 700 series which share DNA with the 420/430ss.
Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: Alto Mare on July 01, 2020, 12:05:24 PM
Quote from: Jenx on July 01, 2020, 05:19:03 AM
Quote from: oc1 on June 30, 2020, 05:46:19 AM
I think a good test of any reel is to drop it in the sand, dunk it in saltwater to get the sand out, leave it lying around in a moist environment and see how long it takes to freeze up or start grinding.  Some were made for it and some weren't.
-steve

My 720 (blue one) has passed that test. I did that this past fathers day weekend, and not for the first time. I dropped it in the sand Saturday morning. Dunked in the surf to clean it off, and then proceeded to fish it the rest of the morning. I just gave it a quick hose down when I got home, and then took it out the next morning and fished it again.

I'm not sure why this reel isn't getting more love than it does. It still sell for less than $50 (I'm pretty sure I got mine for $30). Looking at ebay's past listings this reel has the least value of all the Z series and SS series reels. Is that just because it's the only reel out of those two series that doesn't have any ball bearings? For me that's a selling point. One less part I have to worry about. I think part of my initial complaint about the price of the 430ss, is that I own one, bought it a few years ago before the prices started to inflate, and IMO it's not worth twice the price of the 720.


The 720 and 722 are nice reel, I know these are designed for freshwater, but some friends, including myself do use them in saltwater and I don't see why not?
Bushing will always do better than roller bearing in saltwater.

I would not complain too much on cost, they usually go up when we talk about them, we have lots of watchers.

I'm still looking for the black 720z, I saw one but the price was out there.

On another note, a new 706 greenie just sold the other day for I believe $410+ shipping 🙄... I would personally not go that high, but money doesn't have the same meaning to all.

Sal
Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: Alto Mare on July 01, 2020, 12:13:03 PM
Quote from: Aiala on June 29, 2020, 03:29:33 PM
I have all the original SS models 420 thru 850... some NIB... BUT I have never been able to lay my hands on an all-metal 440SS. Supposedly they do exist, but if so, they're true unicorn unobtanium.  :P

~A~


Hello Aiala, same here on the 440SS.
Some say it never existed with the metal frame...I'm not sure, but up to now I think they're right.

Sal
Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: Jenx on July 01, 2020, 03:29:27 PM
Quote from: Alto Mare on July 01, 2020, 12:13:03 PM
Hello Aiala, same here on the 440SS.
Some say it never existed with the metal frame...I'm not sure, but up to now I think they're right.

Sal

Below is a link to a thread in the Stripers forum from a few years ago discussing the 440ss. Maybe you have seen it already, but a person who I believe works for Penn chimed in, and said they had researched it, and could not find any proof that a metal body 440SS was ever made. They even posted pictures from Penn's catalogues from that era, and the 440SS wasn't shown in any of them.

However mystic parts does have a picture of one. I wonder if Penn, when initially designing these reels, made a prototype of a 440SS, and then for whatever reason it wasn't put into production. A picture of that prototype eventually made it onto the web, and the rumor of the 440SS started.

That's my wild theory for the day.

https://www.stripersonline.com/surftalk/topic/547797-cant-find-an-all-metal-440ss/ (https://www.stripersonline.com/surftalk/topic/547797-cant-find-an-all-metal-440ss/)
Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: Alto Mare on July 01, 2020, 03:59:54 PM
Quote from: Jenx on July 01, 2020, 03:29:27 PM
Quote from: Alto Mare on July 01, 2020, 12:13:03 PM
Hello Aiala, same here on the 440SS.
Some say it never existed with the metal frame...I'm not sure, but up to now I think they're right.

Sal

Below is a link to a thread in the Stripers forum from a few years ago discussing the 440ss. Maybe you have seen it already, but a person who I believe works for Penn chimed in, and said they had researched it, and could not find any proof that a metal body 440SS was ever made. They even posted pictures from Penn's catalogues from that era, and the 440SS wasn't shown in any of them.

However mystic parts does have a picture of one. I wonder if Penn, when initially designing these reels, made a prototype of a 440SS, and then for whatever reason it wasn't put into production. A picture of that prototype eventually made it onto the web, and the rumor of the 440SS started.

That's my wild theory for the day.

https://www.stripersonline.com/surftalk/topic/547797-cant-find-an-all-metal-440ss/ (https://www.stripersonline.com/surftalk/topic/547797-cant-find-an-all-metal-440ss/)
Hello Jenx, no I have not seen it on SOL, but I haven't been on there for about a year or two.
I did see the 440ss on Mystic, but that might be the case of someone replacing the sticker on a 450SS, I'm not sure.
If I ever get to see one io close that would do it for me.
As of now I do not believe it was ever in production, but have seen some strange stuff come out from Penn in the past.

Maybe Tony or Steve could settle this for us😏.

Best,

Sal
Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: Benni3 on July 02, 2020, 05:35:55 AM
My 440ss is graphite and my 430ss is metal,,,, ;) but the reason I don't use them much is "wieght" the pfueger patriarch 3500 is 7.3oz on a 10ft black hole Suzuki rod 7.9oz=14.12oz and a 2500 6.2oz on a 9ft tfo sea run rod 7.3oz=13.5,,,, :) when you're casting all day that's a big difference on your back,,,, :D the 3500 I have had for 5years and i serviced it 1time a year it's a pain last time it needed a bail spring and drag washers,,,but order a couple more because parts available are limited now,,,,there's advantages and disadvantages anyway you go,,,,,,,, ;D
Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: larry3142 on April 07, 2021, 05:48:07 PM
Quote from: foakes on June 27, 2020, 10:28:06 PM
Quote from: Jenx on June 27, 2020, 10:08:44 PM
I just went on Ebay to see what my 430ss is going for. There is one at auction right now that is up $96. That thing will probably crack $100, and it's not NOS, nor does it come with its original box.

That's a lot of money for an ultralight reel that is over 30 years old. I doubt I'd spend that much money on a modern trout/pan fish reel.

That might be true, Jenz --

But it is also true that the tough little 430 - 420 size reels will still be bringing in the fish -- when the new Tupperware plastic marvels will be buried in a landfill.

Materials, parts availability, engineering, simplicity, and proven capability for generations -- is what separates the drama of has-beens and wanna-be slick reels -- from a trusted old friend.   I bought one on ebay about a year ago in mint condition ,I dont think the guy knew what he had but I got it for thirty five dollor    its a beatty


As we get the chance to restore, service, and use these old Penns -- and other quality brands from the 60's - 70's - 80's -- we could realize that the cheapest reel is not always the best reel.

There is a reason why that old Penn 430 is around $100 -- the bidders know the reason.

IMO.

Best,

Fred
Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: Midway Tommy on April 07, 2021, 08:52:48 PM
I picked up a NIB 420SS with an extra spool, & it still had the Penn logoed packing paper, three or four years ago for $15 at a fishing tackle flea market. I've been offered $180 for it & still have it, NIB, unused. Some might say, "That was when two fools met", especially my wife.  ;D
Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: foakes on April 07, 2021, 09:52:51 PM
Quote from: Midway Tommy on April 07, 2021, 08:52:48 PM
I picked up a NIB 420SS with an extra spool, & it still had the Penn logoed packing paper, three or four years ago for $15 at a fishing tackle flea market. I've been offered $180 for it & still have it, NIB, unused. Some might say, "That was when two fools met", especially my wife.  ;D

Good one, Tom!  Was your wife's comment before or after you turned down the $180 offer?😄😄😄

Over the last 13 months since the pandemic deal started — I have been transitioning to working mainly on quality spinner's from the 50's into the late 80's.

Moving out everything else —

Even though I already had around 1000 Mitchell's, DQ's, Cardinals, ABU's, & Penns — plus organized parts for all of those — it never hurts to have a few more, so that folks will have more to choose from, right?

So I have purchased or traded for just under 200 reels in the last 13 months.  

Was pretty busy with other priorities — so these just were tossed on 3 large shelves, until yesterday — when I decided to take a look at them — and separate them into groups (the 3 shelves were beginning to sag).  

DQ 110's, 110N's, Microlite 265's, 1000, 1001, 221's, all '00's, '01's, '02's.  Cardinals, ABU's.  A few quality oddballs like Daiwa mini-mites, 500C - 1000C's, Sigma Whisker Titan's, Eagle Claws, Luxors, Centaures, Shimanos, etc.  Plus a few crates of Penn's.

About time to toss them into the on-deck for sale cycle.

Can't go wrong keeping good quality spinning gear — they only go up in value.

You can't pay too much for a clean, quality spinner — or too little for a rough one.

Best, Fred
Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: Dominick on April 07, 2021, 11:13:20 PM
Fred, dibs on the Ocean City reel and box.  Let me know how much.  I'll follow your instructions for payment.  Dominick
Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: Midway Tommy on April 08, 2021, 12:04:53 AM
Quote from: foakes on April 07, 2021, 09:52:51 PM
Quote from: Midway Tommy on April 07, 2021, 08:52:48 PM
I picked up a NIB 420SS with an extra spool, & it still had the Penn logoed packing paper, three or four years ago for $15 at a fishing tackle flea market. I've been offered $180 for it & still have it, NIB, unused. Some might say, "That was when two fools met", especially my wife.  ;D

Good one, Tom!  Was your wife's comment before or after you turned down the $180 offer?😄😄😄

Over the last 13 months since the pandemic deal started — I have been transitioning to working mainly on quality spinner's from the 50's into the late 80's.

Moving out everything else —

Even though I already had around 1000 Mitchell's, DQ's, Cardinals, ABU's, & Penns — plus organized parts for all of those — it never hurts to have a few more, so that folks will have more to choose from, right?

DQ 110's, 110N's, Microlite 265's, 1000, 1001, 221's, all '00's, '01's, '02's.  Cardinals, ABU's.  A few quality oddballs like Daiwa mini-mites, 500C - 1000C's, Sigma Whisker Titan's, Eagle Claws, Luxors, Centaures, Shimanos, etc.  Plus a few crates of Penn's.

About time to toss them into the on-deck for sale cycle.

Can't go wrong keeping good quality spinning gear — they only go up in value.

You can't pay too much for a clean, quality spinner — or too little for a rough one.

Best, Fred

After I turned down the offer.   :D  Interestingly enough, she was the one that spotted it and a couple of other boxed reels on that table. One was a NIB 712 w/ex spool & the Penn logoed packing paper for $25, & the other one was a NIB ABU Cardinal 52 for $15. I tried to get him down on the 712 but he was pretty proud of it & wouldn't budge. I've seen those 52s go for as much as $250, although their prices haven't been quite as high since the Wuhan Virus fiasco.

If you run into a nice 720 with the round badge for reasonable, I've been looking for awhile but can't quite seem to snag one at a decent price. I've got a box it would go nicely with.   ;)   
Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: foakes on April 08, 2021, 12:43:21 AM
Quote from: Dominick on April 07, 2021, 11:13:20 PM
Fred, dibs on the Ocean City reel and box.  Let me know how much.  I'll follow your instructions for payment.  Dominick

OK, it is yours, Dominick —

I will send it out Friday.

It is an unused, new, OC 950 Monoline with grey-blue sideplates.  Box, paperwork.

Best, Fred
Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: larry3142 on April 08, 2022, 05:29:47 PM
I have a 430SS my brother sent me form Florida he picked it up on Ebay for $50 bucks in excellent condition,I love this reel for its high speed.Im a Dam Quick an Mitchell lover at heart.I have a dam quick 1st and second version of a 265.110 and a 110n and several 308 and 408.Its a tough desion which one I like best but I got to say the 265 Ive had since new for my 6th grade present from my father in the sixties.
Title: Re: Penn SS or Z reels made in USA. Jump in Value/Desrability
Post by: oldmanjoe on April 09, 2022, 02:19:19 AM
Quote from: Dominick on April 07, 2021, 11:13:20 PMFred, dibs on the Ocean City reel and box.  Let me know how much.  I'll follow your instructions for payment.  Dominick
Dang  You found waldo , good eye !!