? shimano fighting star drag

[beancounter]

I recently picked up a couple small graphite reels with the fighting star drag. Can anyone here explain exactly how it works? I am guessing the smaller round knob presets the drag and the star adjusts it up and down quickly if needed during a battle. Is that right?

[reel man]

The small knob centers the spool and may be used to reduce over runs. The star increases/decreases the drag pressure. I think the reel was billed, "Teach ank anchovie how to fly"

[beancounter]

No reel man I am not asking about the spool load adjustment knob. There is a star drag and another round knob under the fighting star wheel that adjusts drag as well. Waiting for someone that has experience with this specific system to comment.

[chockpish]

I think it may be a two speed reel! One is the drag and the other is to switch from one speed to an other! JMHO!

[philaroman]

Shimano's Fightin'Drag on rear-drag spinners is an extra feature -- a lever that nudges the drag in either direction, in small precise increments, without changing the main drag setting...  very convenient, for those who like to fuss w/ the drag while playing a fish (I also use it as a poor-man's pseudo-Baitrunner)

not sure about baitcasters -- I'd guess the big wheel between star & handle, does the same thing...  prob. made obsolete by calibrated (clicky) stars, unlike the spinners that have been in continuous production 40+ yrs.

[hurt locker]

 Yes, you are correct. The small knob is a pre-set for the drag, like on a lever drag. Be careful if you take it apart because there is a very small ball single bearing that is under the drag star that is very easy to lose. I found that out the hard way! I had to keep messing with my Triton Speedmasters until I found the Strike setting that I liked and was comfortable with.

[beancounter]

Thanks for the bearing warning was thinking about opening them up tonight now I know what to watch out for.

[philaroman]

just open it up "in containment" -- bucket, clear bag, etc.