bottom conventional reel help

[squatchbobo]

First off I'm new to conventional reels. I've been doing research trying to find the right conventional for me which has to be left handed. My budget is $300. Also of course a reel that will last me quite a long time. The reel will be used on the bottom and on piers/heavy structure so i need to be able to pull out  big reds big snook and grouper, and probably spooled with 50-65 braid. I currently only know one option which is a Penn Senator 4/0 left hand. Avets look nice but many people online say they just fall apart while others say they last for decade(s)? Any help on this decision would be nice 

[RowdyW]

 Welcome to the family.You can't beat a 113H "Special" Senator (red plate model). It's not the same as a 113 4/0 Senator (black plates). Easy to service, tough, & durable. Like a Timex watch, "it keeps on ticking" If you need bigger you can step up to a 114H. With the money saved you will be able to purchase a rod to go with it.          Rudy

[Bill B]

What Rudy said.....might be tough finding a LH version though, but money well spent if you do....Bill

[akfish]

Avet reels do not just fall a part! They are all metal, so if you fish them a while without rinsing them, you'll end up with corrosion. But they won't fall apart. If you clean and service them, they'll last a very long time. Like all lever drag reels, if you push the drag beyond specs, you'll fry the pinion bearing. But used correctly and serviced as necessary, they'll last a long tie and catch fish.

[oc1]

I think a 4/0 is overkill for the largest reds and snook.  OK for really big jewfish but overkill for normal grouper.  If you're bottom fishing from a pier you might want something that is a little easier to cast than a 4/0.  Something jigmaster or squidder size perhaps.  They have enough power and will hold all the 50-65 lb braid you need for the task.
-steve