Somewhere In The Middle

By: Jan Hannstra & Dennis Roberts 

__________________________________________________________________ 

Sometimes, we as collectors strive to determine exacting information as to when a reel was manufactured and issued into circulation. Unfortunately, these two don’t always match up. Recently, EBay auctioned off a Mitchell 308A in the Green MS  (Mitchell Sports) box. It was determined after examining the reel that it was the first offering by MS of this model. Prior to MS, Browning, who controlled the Mitchell brand (1980-1983), packaged their reels in the familiar blue box. In the few short years that Browning was involved with Mitchell, changes in reel designs became the norm. In 1983, the last year of Browning’s involvement is when this particular version was manufactured. What makes this reel so unique is the fact we had no knowledge of this version’s existence until now.  At the very end of Browning, MS quickly changed the packaging to a green box but retained the Browning warranty & paper work. Since this is a transition version of the 308A, and lays somewhere in the middle between Browning and MS, is it possible that the same model was issued by Browning in the blue box a few months prior to the MS release; something to ponder. The reel has been sold in Japan, Netherlands and the US, but yet, only now has it come to light. That is why we estimate the reel had a very limited production run; less than 3 months.  In light of this new find, we thought it would be a nice idea to examine the entire spectrum of known Mitchell 308A’s issued from beginning to end! 

Garcia Mitchell 308A 1977-1978

Mitchell’s first entry of the 308A version was produced for Garcia in late 1978 or early1979. The (A) symbol, from what we can surmise, represents a new and updated version of the original 308. The bail has the new style line guide but utilizes the same original bail system.  As a matter of fact, the 1977 / 78 version is basically the same as the model except for the (A) suffix. The handle was redesigned and the spool is a somewhat brighter aluminum color. The drag knob was the old style 4 prong design. This model was offered for less than one year but in sales circulation for a few years until inventories were depleted.  No serial numbers are used for this model. 

Browning 308A 1980-1981

 Mitchell’s next offering was the first for Browning. In 1980/1981, Browning became the principal owner of the Mitchell brand. We, as collectors, segregate Mitchells by vendor / years of ownership of the Mitchell brand. This helps with organizing dates of issue and versions issued by the principals at the time. Browning’s first version 308A was somewhat different than Garcia’s issued a year prior. The reel remained black and has the same black / silver band around the rotor as the Garcia version. The handle is modified with the addition of a black knob that tightens the handle in place. The bail assembly is a new design, and spool color is a different shade of silver colored aluminum. The drag knob is now a 3 prong (delta) style design. And lastly, the Garcia logo has been removed. This issue, like the Garcia version before it, was only available for approximately one year.  Browning was known for making changes often.

Mitchell Browning 308A 1982

 The second version 308A issued by Browning was placed into circulation approximately 1982. This version is identical to Browning’s first issue except that the new handle locking knob received some slight modifications, white writing was directly applied on the rotor, and the silver band previously used was removed. Both Browning versions have the redesigned bail system and line guide.  Browning, for the most part, liked to change the reel aesthetics frequently. The same reel was issued at the end of 1982 with a graphite spool. This would be considered the third version as a result of the spool change by Browning. 

Browning 308A Graphite Spool 1982

Browning’s last version of the 308A is a slight departure from previous versions with changes to the rotor. White lettering with a newly added red line, a graphite spool, and the delta drag-knob are the main features that separate this version from previous Browning offerings. The same reel was re-issued by MS in 1985, approximately. Now the story gets even more intriguing. Still under the Browning banner, It is our position that Browning produced a transitional 308A at the end of 1983 for MS per their request.  

Browning 308A 1983

Mitchell Sports 308A 1983

A number of publications, including The Mitchell Collectors Reference Guide, list a Browning third version with the red-line on the rotor. This version is being withdrawn from that conclusion and replaced with the above recently discovered version without the red-line. 

MS’s last entry that remained on store shelves for a number of years was the reel listed below having the red line on the rotor identical to the Browning version.  The question is this, why do we have two identical reels made by both Browning and MS, then interrupted by a transition piece in 1983?  In the normal rationale of manufacturing, even with the change of companies, the lineage of reels should have had the same reel produced by both companies!! What we have is an anomaly that truly cannot be explained satisfactorily as to the whys. Our collective opinion is this, MS most likely opted to return back to the version with the red line for some reason. The other possibility that may hold more validity is that Browning/MS manufactured a special issue of the reel having no red line for field-marketing or special order. We will probably never know. 

Mitchell Sports 308A 1984-1985

The next and last 308A issued was manufactured for JWA Mitchell Sports of France. It was the same exact reel as the previous MS (1985-1989) . The new packaging had the JWA blister pack.  Some major changes were made, gold lettering was used on the reel and rotor, and a red line under the gold wording was included. This reel maintained the same graphite spool and delta drag-knob. Some speculate this reel was also sold by MS in the green box; I have no evidence to validate that possibility. 

JWA 308A 1989-1990

The various 308A models that were issued are quite decorative in their overall design and offer the collector a nice sub-group of ultra lights to collect. I would suggest that packaging be incorporated into your acquisition as it would compliment your purchase and should enhance its value. 

MRCC 

Aftermarket Tournament Reels

By: Dennis Roberts                                                                                                       Epilogue 

_____________________________________________________________________________

 We conclude our series of the tournament reels with a review of aftermarket samples of modified reels to that of  quasi tournament casters. These custom “home built” competitive casting reels became icons of a bygone era. Only recently has competitive casting come back in vogue with professional casters experimenting with “turning” special tournament spools for their casting reels; i.e. Daiwa, Shimano, Mitchell to name a few.

Three tiered spool

  The builders of these special spools and in some cases, multi tiered line guides, produced very efficient and competitive versions of the original factory offerings and drew on non-conventional wisdom in their design.

300 with shock cone spool

 What made these particular reels unique was the fact that they were standard “over-the-counter” Mitchell models that had major conversions completed to the spool and line guide system to enhance performance. The internals were refined and clearances made tight.  The addition of a new casting spool with either a conventional or multi-tiered line guide culminated into a very nice and capable entry that often proved quite effective during competition. These aftermarket tournament spools and other appendages were also produced for Abu, Zebco, Cardinal, and Dam-Quick, as these companies also produced tournament versions for their respective reels. 

300 with single stage spool

During the period of 1961-1976, professional casters dabbled with converting standard reels into distance / accuracy casters. It was a short-lived endeavor, only arousing interests with competitors for approximately 15-20 years. However, the results during that period were impressive; many tournaments were won and records broken. This is not to detract from the success of the real tournament casters used during that same period, but the number of custom versions in circulation were far greater than their pedigree counterparts therefore the increase in their success rate. 

During the early 60’s and late 70’s, demand far exceeded supply for these original tournament reels prompting competitors to take matters into their own hands and produce aftermarket concept reels.  The spools were the key element; therefore, assorted sizes and types were developed at the request of the owner to the spool producer usually a single person enterprise. It is important to note that a number of spools were “home built” by the owner and some by machine shops (job shop) and some by Mitchell!  Trying to segregate spools by manufacture or who built what is next to impossible with aftermarket spools. One of the draw backs of that time  was line technology has not yet come of age.

Various Spools

The aftermarket spool designs proved to be quite capable in its realm.  Spools were made from industrial grade aluminum turned into the desired shape and height. It has been noted that some spools were made from titanium.  The titanium was used because of it’s “low” coefficient of drag and light weight, thus increasing line release more effectively which increased distance. Titanium spools were extremely difficult to obtain and costly for the private user in the early 70’s which accounts for why very few were made with this material.

2009 3 tier spool for the 408

Custom built spool and line guide

           It would be very extremely difficult to estimate exactly how many of custom configurations were built during this period. Most collectors agree, based on some known facts, that there were three prominent builders that we know of  that made spools and multi-tired line guides. The actual network and extent of suppliers, for the most part, are unknown making exacting info unavailable. Too many years have since passed to uncover this information. 

Aftermarket metal wedding cake

It is important to stress that the reels are pure genuine standard Mitchells modified by the addition of an aftermarket custom built casting spool and special line guide. The owners of these reels wanted to exercise their own design configuration and experimented with new concepts that satisfied their competitive needs.  The primary reason why competitors optioned to reconfigure their reels was do to limited availability of factory built tournament casters. Only select individuals had access to these factory built originals. This prompted many to dabble in aftermarket.

3 tier 406 caster 1970 vintage

What is interesting is the fact that these odd and controversial home built casters developed a life of their own with collectors.    Awareness that these reels are not authentic has not deterred both investor and collectors alike from paying large sums of money to own one of these reels.  Without doubt, collectors have contributed to their overall high value by increasing demand for ownership. 

It is also very important for you, the collector, or investor to be very careful when purchasing these units!  In todays’ world technology and easy access to materials and equipment, one can produce fraudulent copies that mimic the actual spools made by the manufacturer during that period. As the old saying goes: Buyer beware!!!   Approximately 8-10 different spool designs were conceived over a 25 year period.  This is only a small sample of the varied types that were produced. 

CAP 314 after market

It is still possible for individuals to produce the exact aftermarket spools / line guides as were originally manufactured during this period.  The seller should disclose that the spool / line guide is an aftermarket product and when it was built as that will go a long way in determining a collector’s value and provide proper identification.

Not to the Collector

 By Mike DiMattio  

_____________________________________________________________  

 Have you ever wondered if your collectable Mitchell reel has the correct spool?  Well I have on many occasions and this is what prompted me to do this analysis on the Mitchell 300 spool.  What is amazing is that even though many modifications were made to the spool over the years, the spools are completely interchangeable.  More specifically, a 1947 spool can be used on any model 300 up until the year 2002 when a total reel design change occurred.  Think about this for a moment, that’s a period of 55 years during a time when Mitchell produced approximately 20 million model 300 reels.  The number of spools made during this same period had to be at least triple this amount.  

Spool design 1939-1947

1939-83 Large CapacityRZ

Not only do these spools fit the 300 model, they will fit on any model with the same body design.  A fisherman could reach into their tackle box and not have to worry if they had the right size or type spool.  Line could be changed effortlessly and instantaneously.  The design was brilliant and I would argue that it competes with today’s high tech competition.  This is part of the reason for Mitchell’s success; a time when capitalism succumbed to common sense.   

1939-75 Small CapacityRZ

In the early years two distinct spools were manufactured.  One to house heavier line (large capacity) and a small capacity design to hold lighter line.  Every Mitchell 300 reel through July 1975 was sold with a large and small capacity spool, one of which (usually the large) was contained in a spool canister and sold with each reel or separately as an accessory.    

Beginning with the window box in late 1975, Mitchell developed a blue plastic arbor that could be placed into the large capacity spool converting it to a medium capacity.  This replaced the extra spool.  In 1983, the company engineered their final design, a medium capacity that was made out of plastic for a period of two years.  A more durable carbon graphite material was substituted for the plastic in 1985 and the design remained the same for the remaining 17 years of the egg shaped body production.  

Spool Design 1947-1948

  Because of this ability to interchange spools, it is very common to find the wrong spool on a reel.  Below are pictures of each spool by year of manufacture to help collectors match the correct spool with the reel.  Key design characteristics were photographed rather than capacity size. Only large capacity spools have a washer under the break spring.  Small capacity spools do not and therefore it is absent from small capacity spool photos .

1983-2001 Medium CapacityRZ

1975-83 Arbor Insert

~Design Change Highlights by Year~

 1939          All aluminum, protruded spool release button, 4 spoke aluminum drag nut with no spool size insignia, non reinforced metal spindle back, 1^st version pawl.

Spool design 1939-1947

1948          Spool capacity insignia added to drag nut, spindle back reinforced, 2^nd version pawl.

1947-48 spool type

   1949          3^rd version pawl with small capacity spool insignia.

Spool design 1948-1952

   1952          4^th version (heart shaped) pawl, spool release button less protruded, plastic drag nut, shiny spindle back with “France” stamped on back seen in 1955 spools.

Spool design 1952-1955

1956          Plastic spindle back first introduced still having 4th version pawl. New spool design, no screws holding spool to rear housing.

Spool design 1955-1957

   1957          5th version pawl. New spool and rear support housing. Metal spool still in use.

Spool design 1957-1958

   1959          New break spring design, round line strength sticker and spool capacity wrap introduced.

Spool design 1958-1959

   1963          Crescent shaped line strength sticker.

Spool design 1959-1963

Spool design 1963-1966

1966          3 spoke drag button, another new break spring design, reinforced plastic spindle back.

Spool design 1966-1975

   1975          7^th version pawl (last design), larger 3 spoke drag nut, arbor introduced.

Spool design 1975-1977

   1977          White painted aluminum spool.

Spool design 1977-1978

1978          Natural aluminum spool .

Spool design 1978-1983

  1983          Black plastic spool with new medium capacity design.

Spool design 1983-1985

   1985          Carbon graphite material (“Carbon Graphite Spool” in white letters on drag nut).

Spool design 1985-1989

   1990         Carbon graphite in gold letters on drag nut, gold spool release button.

Spool design 1990-2001

  Distance & Accuracy Competition

By: Bill Burke                                                                                                                                              Part 4  

 _________________________________________________________________________   

About the Author: Bill is a resident of Paris, Kentucky and was elected to the Hall of Fame of the American Casting Association (ACA). He has been selected to the United States Casting Team having competed in nine (9) ICSF World Casting Championships. He is the current ACA record holder in the Seniors Distance Plugs Combination event which comprises the total distance cast in feet for the 2-Hand 5/8oz Spinning Distance event, the 2-Hand 5/8oz Revolving Distance event, and the 1/4oz 1-Hand Spinning Distance event. He is a National Champion many times over in the ACA Senior Division. While he is not a machinist by profession, he has been machining custom distance spools and manual pickups for tournament distance casters for over 40 years.   

Many Mitchell reel collectors have been led to believe that the Mitchell reel with the added intermediate gear was manufactured for the left handed professional caster. In truth, it was manufactured for right hand casters only. I am pleased to see that Dennis Roberts addresses this issue in his article “Mitchell’s Wedding Cake Tournament Reel, Part 2” listed on this website. Here Dennis gives a very clear and accurate description of the importance of the distance caster’s selection of the proper reel depending on whether or not he/she is right handed or left handed.   

Confusion is added by the fact that eBay sellers and collectors describe the Mitchell 301 as a reel for the left handed caster. This description has nothing to do with the way line is spooled or comes off the reel during the cast. It only means it is held in the left hand and cranked with the right hand. For example, in distance casting, the Mitchell 301 is used by the right hand caster.   

I am aware that the true purist Mitchell collector wants only factory original reels, but the main reason the aftermarket existed was so that distance casters could have access to various top quality Mitchell reels in order to make the necessary conversions to a competitive caster.   

Being a competitive tournament distance caster for over 45 years, I have seen the many ways that right handed casters, having no access to the older tournament reels with the intermediate gear, longer shaft and conic spools, have adapted.   

406 3 tier MP system

My first custom spool and pickup pictured above is for the 30 Gram (1 ounce) 2-Handed Distance event. It is a Mitchell 406 equipped with a 3-stage conic spool, a 3-step manual pickup, and a short shaft extension. At that time, I also machined a spool and 2-step manual pickup for a left handed casting friend. It was a Mitchell 407 spinning reel which he still uses. He held the American Casting Association (ACA) national record for many years and won the gold medal at the last ACA National Casting Championships in the Senior Division using his Mitchell 407.   

Since the revolutionary Mitchell tournament reel with the added gear made its debut for the right hand caster, something needed to be done for casters having no access to these special tournament models. Mitchell is one of the few manufacturers that produced left and right hand spinning reels for fishing. The design of most other manufacturers only allowed the user to shift the handle to either side of the reel which does nothing to change the direction of the rotating head.

Balzer 300 conversion tournament reel #8

 The aftermarket conversion provided a way for everyone to have access to highly competitive Mitchell distance reels. For the right handed caster here is a Balzer 300 with a “Wedding Cake” spool, pickup, and locking ring handle. Included in that arena of specialty conversion model is a Mitchell 300 Pro reel.   

To eliminate the need for the long shaft in reels #8 and #120, the spool parts have been modified so that each spool will fit these short shaft reels. A short aluminum tube has been threaded which includes an inside spacer pin that allows the spool to be attached and released from a short shaft. Two additional spool parts are needed for this conversion. 

Mitchell 301 Tournament conversion

Tournament reel spool components

Mitchell 300 Pro conversion #120

All of the reels were modified for the 2-handed 30 gram (1 ounce) distance event which was later changed to the 18 gram (5/8 ounce) event. Mitchell was also the frontrunner for the 7.5 gram (1/4 oz.) 1-Hand distance event. Here reels like the Mitchell 300 and 301 come into play. The single stage aluminum spool is still one of the most popular choices in Europe for the 1- Hand 7.5 gram (1/4oz.) distance event. Its success has been measured in many wins.    

 The single stage spool can be added to almost any Mitchell reel with a 300 size frame -such as a Mitchell 411 and requires no special pickup.   

Mitchell 411 conversion caster

While there seems to be a lot more interest in distance competition reels, it is the Mitchell accuracy reel that is the most common model still being used in Europe, Canada, and United States. These are no other than the Mitchell 308/309 and 408/409. I would estimate that over 90 percent of North American casters compete with these ultra lights. This is because the Mitchell reel design included several unique features not made available by any other reel manufacturer. Examples are shallow spools, pivoting (2-piece) bail trip levers, and replacement cams.   

For comfort and accuracy almost all competition accuracy casters want the spool positioned in its farthest position outside the rotating head. The spool is positioned by opening the bail ready for the cast and rotating the handle backwards which moves the spool backward or forward into the desired position. The unique pivoting bail trip lever allows this maneuver. Newer versions of these models have a 1-piece fixed trip lever which will not allow the spool to be repositioned. These competitor preferred reels are readily available on eBay. Note: in the picture below the bail trip lever on the left pivots while the one on the right is fixed.  

308 Ultra light pivoting bail trip

Another common adaptation is to replace the two-piece Planamatic gearing system with a replacement crosswind cam. The cam on the right actually does what it says by actually providing a crosswind of the line decreasing the chance for the line snagging while delivering the cast; see picture below. 

Planamatic gearing-vs- Crosswind

In accuracy competitions, the vast majority of casters hold the line against the spools front lip with their forefinger before releasing the cast and during the flight of the plug, a feathering technique is used to slow down or speed up the plug toward the desired target. Casters that do not hold the line against the spool will immediately move their forefinger to the front lip of the spool after the release of the plug to begin this feathering technique. As in distance competitions, the accuracy caster must use a reel that allows the line to travel down the forefinger during the cast.   

In my next article I will explain and show pictures of a few Mitchell ultra-lights that have been converted from the standard 5:1 retrieve ratio to a super fast retrieve ratio of 15:1 or 16:1 for world accuracy competitions.

Select Photos Courtesy of Calin Moga   

MRCC : Copyright Protected   

For Your Mitchell Reel

By: Ed Scharf:  

_____________________________________________________________  

  My hobby is fishing and collecting old fishing reels.  But my career for 37 years has been as a maintenance reliability engineer in the chemical manufacturing and power generation industries.  During that time, lubrication of mechanical equipment has been an important part of my everyday work.  So it was natural for me to apply my knowledge of basic lubrication techniques to fishing reels.  I decided to write this article to convey some lubrication technology information in an easy to understand way for Mitchell fishermen and reel collectors.  

The technology in oils and greases has come a long way since the days of the first Mitchell reel.  Gone are the days when grease products would dry and gum up the inside of your reel.  Gone are the days when we need to worry about corrosion inside the reel.  In this article I have outlined 3 categories of lubricant products.  I discuss the latest technology in grease, oil, and protectants, that can be used in Mitchell’s or any other fishing reel.  

1.  Anti-Corrosive Protectants/Lubricants –  

In the course of overhauling or servicing a Mitchell reel, it may be necessary to assemble and dis-assemble the reel several times before the desired smoothness of operation is achieved.  Shims may need to be added or removed from various components during these trial assemblies.  At that time, a light penetrating protective lubricant should be used on the bearings, gears, and slide mechanisms. This provides a protective coating to the moving components.  

Almost everyone knows about WD-40™.  It has been available for many years and was originally developed for the aerospace industry.  It first appeared on the shelves of stores in 1958.  For a long time WD-40™ was the best there was on the market but it was discovered that if it remained on metal parts for an extended period of time, it would dry up and leave behind a gummy film. This film is easily removed but required a re-cleaning of parts with a suitable solvent.  

Corrosion X

Today there are products that should never cause a film to be formed on intricate and precision fitting fishing reel parts.  One that I use and recommend is called “Corrosion X” ™ in a 16oz spray bottle.  This material has very low VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) levels compared to WD-40™.  That means if left on a surface, it will virtually never “dry up”.  It is an excellent corrosion inhibitor, penetrant and lubricant.  It also displaces water that may be present.  

2.  Grease –  

Grease in the fishing reel is one of the most important things that make the reel reliable and trouble free.  It is also the most misunderstood of all lubricants.  That is because there are so many “secret” or proprietary formulas.  This secrecy can breed an attitude of distrust between users and sellers.  As a mechanical engineer that has spent my whole career in equipment reliability, I have seen literally hundreds of these “cure all” formulas.  The manufacturers would not release the specs.  So I have learned to stick with the basics and stay away from these specialties for the most part.  I always was faithful to manufacturers and sellers who are honest and are open about their products while maintaining their formulation properties.   

Grease is composed of two basic parts, plus additives which enhance performance.  The lubricating part of grease is simply oil.  The base oil is held into place in the reel by another chemical compound called the “soap”.  There are many different types of soaps used to make grease and those soaps determine the application to which the grease is most suited.  In order to select a proper grease for our Mitchell reel we should first determine what properties of grease are important in a fishing reel.   

A.  Good lubricating properties.  As mentioned, this is a function of the base oil and the base oil additives only.  

B.  Low separation of the base oil from the soap.  This will slow down the caking or solidifying of the grease soap and grease will remain soft.  The base oil will therefore stay on the parts where it needs to be.  

C.  Good Corrosion inhibiting properties with respect to aluminum, brass, “soft-metal” and steel parts.  

D.  Fresh / Salt water resistance.  

The grease available in the days of the vintage Mitchell 300 reels was primarily “Lithium” soap greases.  These greases were good but left some important properties on the table, so to speak.  The base oil tended to separate or bleed out of the soap.  This is not good because when this happens, the lubricant (oil) is not present where it needs to be.  The reel operation becomes stiff and needs to be cleaned and re-greased often.  Also, corrosion and water resistance properties are not considered attributes of Lithium base greases.  

Since 1990, the field of lubricant technology has experienced accelerated advances within the grease manufacturing industry well beyond most products.  Advances in grease technology have been tremendous and offer many products for all types of special applications from the extreme cold climate to high temperature use. Fortunately, of the many types of grease available, in my opinion one type fits the application of fishing reels better than any other.  It is called the “Aluminum Complex” soap grease.  

Aluminum Complex greases have been known since the early 1970’s.  Refinements in the methods of manufacture really started taking place in the late 1980’s.  Global usage of Aluminum Complex greases are still a very small part of total grease consumption but have been growing steadily since 1990. I know of two brands of AL Complex grease available today that are excellent for fishing reels of all types especially in salt water applications.  

1.  Yamaha Multi Purpose Grease™, marketed by Yamaha Motor Corporation™, USA.  

Yamaha Multi Grease

2.  Sta-Lube Boat Trailer Wheel Bearing Grease #3121™, marketed by CRC Industries™, USA.  

CRC Sta-Lube #3121

Both of these greases are a dark blue in color and are of the standard NLGI #2 consistency.  They are so similar, it looks like they could be the same thing!  I have been using the Yamaha grease in my Mitchell reels with excellent results.  So how will these AL Complex greases match up to our requirements for fishing reels.  Let’s take a look at the benefits. The AL Complex greases are very stable at low as well as high temperatures.  That means your Mitchell reel will not get “stiff” at subfreezing temperatures.  This is good for cold weather fishermen like me! It also has all the other benefits as mentioned above, and in my opinion, is the best for fishing reels. Other attributes are:  

Good Lubricating Properties. This is really where AL Complex grease, especially the ones shown above, really excels.  First of all, AL Complex grease has a higher percentage of base oil per volume of grease than the other soap types.  There is more oil per ml of grease in AL Complex (remember, oil alone determines the lubricating properties).  In addition, the greases listed above, use a synthetic PAO w/ Pentaerythritol Ester as the base oil stock.  This base oil stock has superior shear resistance and high viscosity index (very little change in viscosity with temperature) compared to petroleum products but are mixable with all petroleum oils.  

Low Separation of Base Oil from the Soap.  Even though AL Complex grease has more oil per ml than any other grease, the separation of oil from the soap is the lowest of almost all standard greases.  It is because of this property that AL Complex grease is used in the food processing industry.  Food contamination is minimized.  AL Complex grease will never harden or cake up.  Oil stays where it provides the most benefit and will never “bleed” out of your reel.  

Corrosion Inhibiting Properties.  Excellent or equal to any other grease.  The synthetic stock used in the above recommended greases tends to cling to metal and thus protect the metal from corrosion.  They are also fortified with rust and oxidation inhibitors.  

Water Resistance.  AL Complex greases have the highest resistance to water washout of any grease available including Calcium Complex Grease which was previously the best.  

What about Silicone grease or grease with Teflon™ additive?   Here is my perspective.  Silicone oil and grease are used in chemical applications because they are very stable compounds.  They also prevent corrosion and are resistant to water and make use of excellent insulating properties in electrical systems. However, as a fishing reel lubricant, they fall short of standard petroleum and synthetic petroleum based products for a number of reasons.  At one time, I would have recommended silicone greases for fishing reels.  With the advent of the newer AL Complex greases, they have dropped down my list.  

Teflon™ fortified oils and greases are actually suspensions of solid TFE™ particles in the oil or grease.  As a reliability engineer, I have experimented with TFE fortified lubricants, with unacceptable results and poor success for my purposes. The solid Teflon tends to separate out of suspension and get clogged where you least want to see it; in fishing reels. I like to stay with the basics and proven products.  

Caution with greases: NEVER mix two different greases, especially with Aluminum Complex. The soaps can chemically react with one another and many, at times, create a solid mass and cause metal corrosion. The parts should be cleaned and fresh grease installed at every servicing.   

How much grease is necessary?  It is surprising how little grease is actually necessary in the fishing reel.  A coating on the gear teeth and slides is sufficient for the most part.  For the best corrosion protection in salt water service, you can apply a thin film on all internal surfaces.  A soldering brush works well for this application.  Just brush on a very light and thin film of grease. ALWAYS keep your grease and oil containers sealed shut when not in use and always use a clean brush.  This is very important.  In fresh water, I just apply a light coating of Corrosion X™ material on all inside metal surfaces.  

As with any application of chemicals, including greases, oils and other lubricants, the proper protective clothing should be worn when using these products -such as, gloves and goggles.  One more note, if you have allergies or reaction to various chemicals and their additives, then this is something that should be addressed prior to the use of any petroleum distillates.  

3.  Oil –   

This is fairly simple.  Sleeve bearings and rolling element bearings in Mitchell reels should be lubricated on final assembly with a good grade of pure light machine oil or a 5W-XX automotive PAO synthetic oil like “Mobil-1”, and not grease.  I simply use Singer™ All Purpose Machine Oil, which is made for sewing machines.  Mobil-1 is one of the best synthetic oils money can buy.

An alternative, is a product called Reel X™ marketed by Corrosion Technologies™ from Houston, TX (same company that makes Corrosion X) works very well in your Mitchell 300C roller bearings and is excellent for bait casting reels with ball bearings.

Singer Machine Oil

Reel X

  My objective in lubrication is always to keep it basic and always use high quality products.  Avoid proprietary lubricants with TFE compounds.  Remember, TFE does NOT dissolve in any oil.  TFE always will remain a solid and can eventually cause caking problems and reel tightening.     

Avoid Silicone oil.  In my opinion, the actual lubricating properties are not nearly as good as standard petroleum oil or PAO synthetic oil.  It is simply not needed. 

 Good Luck and Good Fishing.—  ED  

April, 2010

Skish & Arenberg Tournament

Casters

By: Dennis Roberts                                                                                                                     Part 3 

________________________________________________________________________ 

In Part 3 we explore Mitchell’s tournament caster that was designed purposely for Skish and Arenberg event; accuracy casting. The prior two segments in this series dealt with distance models and their unique qualities. We will now examine the more refined “art” of accuracy casting and the reel that was engineered for this event. The premise for accuracy competition is to cast a pre-measured weight into a designated area consisting of colored hoops or target rings; depending on which discipline you are involved in. How close you come to the target or placing your casting weight in the hoop increases the score in your favor. The accuracy events are disciplined competition requiring good eye-hand coordination and targeting skill. 

Second Version Casting Reel

The standard size body and short spool dimensions, “short-stackers”, make for a good balance between reel and spool that enhances handling during the cast.  Mitchell made this tournament grade reel for accuracy casting during the early to mid 1960’s. It was a derivative of its big brother that was used for distance competition. The reel itself was similar to the original tournament model utilizing the extra gear as a reversing gear to change spool direction opposite from the norm. 

Plastic Ridged Spool

The main difference between this model caster and other types of tournament reels is the spool and in some cases, the axle. Spools came in two types of configuration and two types of material. The original spool was made from plastic, approximately 2-cm in length and with ridges. The spool also has a slight angle for ease of line flow.  As an option, the caster can use a non-conic designed spool made from plastic but having no ridges.  Mitchell also commissioned the use of an aluminum spool of the same dimension. The aluminum spool came in either a smooth or a ridged finish like their plastic counterparts. Some aluminum spools were aftermarket entries used by casters who converted their standard reels to quasi tournament models.  Mitchell also made two axles for this reel.  The short standard ones were used for the accuracy model and the elongated ones were used for the distance models with the long conic spools.  There were circumstances were the distance models used a short axle with a redesigned spool having a recessed interior and/or a modified drag nut with an extension that connected to the standard axle. 

Smooth Plastic Spool

The reel came from the factory with a full bail system, identical to a standard model. Internally, the reel was fine tuned and horned smooth for operation having the extra reversing gear. Unfortunately, information is not available on these “short stack casters” as to the total units manufactured. It appears they never received the same notoriety as their big brothers received. We suspect less than 150 were made during the few years they were manufactured. Although this reel was intended for accuracy casting, they were frequently modified for distance competition.  The extra gear allowed a change of direction of the rotor so that line comes off of the spool without danger to the casting finger for right hand casters. Note: on very early models a locking nut was used. It appears Mitchell modified a regular distance caster to an accuracy caster early on. This was later changed to a regular handle as locking systems were not required for accuracy casting. 

Early Version With Locking Ring

An important note about this version of the tournament model is that it was only marketed with the word Mitchell on the cover plate. Even the ones used in the US had the same wording. Garcia and other vendors’ logos were not included on this special tournament version from what can be determined.  It has been noted that Albatross of the Netherlands did incorporate their logo on the distance versions but we have no evidence they used it on Skish models. 

Aluminum Spool With Ridges

Another interesting fact about this reel is not many remain in circulation.  One of the reasons for this was the reel was easily mistaken for a regular fishing reel and inadvertently used for that purpose.  Many of these models were  modified or destroyed during the years of use. A number of owners knowingly or were not aware or did not care about the significance of this reel and converted it to use for fishing/distance casting. It is estimated that a substantial amount are forever lost as a result of misuse, or of owners not knowing what they had! 

Aluminum Spool Smooth

During the years in circulation, some owners of these reels started to make changes to enhance performance.  Aftermarket spools  were becoming commonplace which only detracted from its original design and depleted the inventory of authentic casters.  To identify an original Skish Tournament caster, the reel should be fitted with an extra reversing gear and plastic ridged spool that was approximately 2 cm long. It also had a slight taper. Aluminum casting spools having similar dimensions in some cases are factory originals but care should be taken on the possibility of counterfeits. By the mid to late 1960’s, Mitchell eliminated the “pure” tournament caster reel and replaced it with the “auto bail” for accuracy casting.

MRCC

Later Version

Internal Gearing

Handle with locking ring

A Case In Point

By: James Partridge & Dennis Roberts

______________________________________________________________________

From the time the 300 PRO-Matic reel (a mix of the 300 Pro body and 440A rotor) came into existence up to this writing, the debate over the particulars of its engineering or lack of has been ongoing. Many articles, including segments in books and on-line website exchanges, have collectively contributed to a better understanding of this reel but have also deepened the mystery as to the how’s and why’s of its construction. We thought a more arranged approach of events and engineering protocols might be in order to assist with demystifying this reel.

300 PRO-Matic

JL Bunel, a well established tackle / sports store located outside of Paris, marketed the PRO-Matic exclusively. As to why JL Brunel decided to sell the PRO-Matic is a mystery and quite frankly, is not that relevant in determining what constitutes a legitimate 300PRO-Matic and the many fraudulent pieces that are now so prevalent in the hobby. Prior to 1999, the PRO-Matic was not well known except to a handful of collectors. A Bunel PRO-Matic reel can be identified by using the information contained in this document.

Rotor for PRO-Matic; Note extra ridge prevents proper fit

Mitchell allowed clients / vendors to make changes to their orders to some measure. This usually consisted of non intrusive identifying features such as the vendor logo / inscription. These options, from what we know, were very limited. Usually well established licensed vendors, i.e. Garcia, Arca, Balzer, etc. had privileges for such changes. A case in point was the distributor of Mitchell reels in the United Kingdom. Mr. Barrie Welham the owner of Garcia-Tackle Ltd had the word ”Match” inscribed by Mitchell on the side cover of the 440 model at his request to identify his creation, the “Mitchell Match reel”. This is an excellent example of vendor request for changes by Mitchell.

OTO axle & 300 Pro axle

The question remains, would an establishment like Bunel’s be privy to such significant changes as exampled by the PRO-Matic?  Did Bunel have an agreement with Mitchell to make changes for such a nominal order? At first glance, it would seem improbable that Mitchell would have entertained the idea of mixing two models to form one bastardized model without first considering the engineering necessities for proper operation, and take into consideration their manufacturing requirements, product standards and warranties!!  Collectors would also have to consider the request by other vendors for the same reel and the impact this would have if the reel was poorly designed.   Studies to-date have shown numerous design inconsistencies when viewing various samples of the 300 PRO-Matic: (see photos).

300 PRO-Matic Axle, lead filler in original hole

300 PRO-Matic axle, different view

300 PRO-Matic Axle with modified hole

In the past we offered the following possibilities as to what may or may not have transpired with the fabrication of the reel. The PRO-Matic was produced at the end of Mitchell’s era of manufacturing parts / reels in France.  The Marignier facility in France was destined to become primarily a R&D location with manufacturing being optioned to Taiwan and later China. Production was winding down in France as parts and reels were in excess. The possibility of Mitchell accepting this unusual request to build the PRO-Matic seemed unlikely even during this chapter in the company’s history. The first consensus was that Mitchell produced the reel for Bunel. At this juncture we are not sure about that early conclusion especially knowing the information we have available to us at this time.

Close-up of 300 PRO-Matic axle with filler

Let us examine what we have todate based on each theory. If Mitchell manufactured the reels as proposed by some, then we have the issue of why we have two holes on the axle that appear to be inadequately engineered. Another area of design irregularities is the lack of sufficient threads extending from the locking nut that holds the rotor in place.  From what can be determined, the problem with the locking nut stems from the poor fit between the rotor and the body. Was it a quick fix to save money for Masseur Bunel in lieu of Mitchell redesigning new axles / using the OTO axle; doubtful. Is it beyond the realm of possibility that Mitchell would have issued substandard workmanship, especially when Mitchell was trying to move inventory and be competitive with Japan; unlikely. These are questions that may never be answered satisfactorily. Therefore, we as collectors have to draw conclusions based on common sense and the preponderance of facts of what we think transpired at that moment along with realistic manufacturing practices. Is it reasonable to presume that Mitchell made these reels by assembling the two models and modifying the axles to satisfy a client and forsake quality; very improbable.

Drill marks on axle

Based on what we know, accurate or not, JL Bunel originally wanted Mitchell to name the reel PRO-Matic but due to extra costs, did not pursue this with Mitchell. Maybe, the cost for these proposed 500 reels was cost prohibitive thereby causing JL Bunel to take matters into his own hands. The following is probably what transpired in the formulation of this reel. JL Bunel purchased newly manufactured 300 PRO models with the original boxes at trade prices of approx 50% of the RRP and reworked the reels in house. This explains why he had the boxes. This also provides a good reason why he used the existing axles from the Pro model; part #81007 and not the “OTO axle” that would have been a better fit thus eliminating the need to modify the axle. Even with the correct axle we would still have an improper fit as a result of rotor-to-body spacing problems. This would explain many of the unanswered questions regarding the various discrepancies with its construction. As to where he obtained the 440A rotors, is another unanswered question. We saw the advertisements from JL Bunel’s establishment which clearly shows he sold the reel and box. The warranty was issued by Bunel exclusively. As to how many were made, we doubt it was 500 as we originally thought.  Bunel probably sold as many as he could build but much less than first estimated. This may be in contradiction of some prior perceptions, but it is our collective opinion that the PRO-Matic was probably built in-house by Bunel.  A PRO-Matic built by Bunel should have a serial number that is predicated by the fact Bunel used original 300 PRO bodies in the construction of the PRO-Matic.

Unfortunately, there is a caveat to the above theory.  The question stands, why would Bunel go through the trouble to assemble this reel? For the minimal reels produced, the profit margin would have been nominal; therefore, we cannot justify the rationale for Bunel to undertake this project.  Secondly, if he did make these reels, how would that affect his relationship with Mitchell as a vendor / supplier of Mitchell products?  Even though we have good evidence as to who built these reels, for the sake of balance, it is still not 100% conclusive that Mitchell did not have some measure of involvement.

Should this reel be considered a true Mitchell in the sense we as collectors value originals? In our opinion, definitely not!  The 300 PRO-Matic is a nice reel that has a place for collectors but should not be considered an authorized original Mitchell. This entire process was most likely a private venture not involving Mitchell of France.  The 300 PRO-Matic was advertised in a French sporting catalog, and translated by fellow collector Christian Lhermitte to  read “improved and transformed by Bunel”.   I think this gives ample validation that these reels were indeed built by JL Bunel.

A special thanks to Christian Lhermitte for providing some of the photography and translation of the Bunel advertisement.   

MRCC

“Wedding Cake”

Tournament Reel

By: Dennis Roberts                                                                                                                             Part 2

_______________________________________________________________________

"Wedding Cake Reel"

This article continues our review of tournament reels issued by Mitchell in the early 1960’s. Carpano & Pons of France - Mitchell Corp. extended their well-defined reel manufacturing operation to encompass specialized reels custom designed for distance and accuracy competition. The sport was at its peak and requests for special spinning reels to cast further and more accurately was in great demand. Mitchell excelled in this area and produced several models.

Mitchell’s three tiered tournament reel; unofficially named the “wedding cake”™ by D. Roberts ltd, was developed by Mitchell’s R&D team; circa 1962. With the help of professional casters, Mitchell produced an improved design from their first version with an internal system that was considered “state of the art” for its time.  Mitchell, utilizing a 300 body, made some modifications that resulted with the addition of an extra gear for changing direction of the rotor. (The following is an excerpt from Part 1, First Issue Tournament Casters.)

This additional gear provided a change in rotor direction to a clockwise rotation during retrieve. The extra gear on Mitchell’s tournament reels was implemented for the benefit of right hand casters.  We will first look at how the line comes off a Mitchell 300 during a cast without the extra gear.

Old Style Locking Ring / Disk

Imagine a view of the Mitchell 300 looking directly towards the front of the spool downward.  You will note that the line goes on the reel in a clockwise rotation and unwinds off the spool in a counter-clockwise rotation during the cast. Now imagine the forefinger of a right hand caster pointing down towards the spool and you will see that the line is travelling up the right hand caster’s forefinger which could result in injury to the casting finger. 

The extra gear on the modified Mitchell 300 tournament models changes the rotation so that the line will travel down the forefinger of the right hand caster. It is for this reason that right hand casters who do not have access to a tournament Mitchell with the added gear, use a Mitchell 301 because of the rotational problems.

Even though a Mitchell 301 is referred to as a left hand reel, it is referring to the hand that turns the handle. The clockwise rewind also enhanced “line flow “off the spool during casting.

After the success of the two-tiered distance caster, Mitchell experimented with a three-tiered system that utilized a design where as the line was kept in check at each stage by a pronounced lip. At the edge of each lip was a small cut for the line to extend onto the next level without interfering with the flow of line coming off of the spool during the cast. The top portion is used for the shock-leader and is hand wound.  Each line guide was for a separate tier. The reel was built with special horned gearing and precision fitting. Mitchell made less than 100 of these very exotic and expensive tournament grade reels.  No manufacturer ever came close to replicating this unique and envelope-pushing design. It was without equal for it’s time.  In the realm of competition, these reels were in the highest demand by casters.

The reel body for the “Wedding-Cake” is identical to the first version tournament caster; (see Part-1). With the addition of a newly designed multi-tiered conic spool, a more subtle locking mechanism and a three tiered line pick-up system, was all that separated the two models. In principal, the spool from each version is interchangeable. There is one exception, on very early first version casters the elongated shaft was designed differently than in later versions. It was the latter that is interchangeable with the spools from the “Wedding-Cake”. It was not until many years later that other reel manufacturers utilized this general concept on their reels to increase casting distance. After its introduction, the reel became the favorite with many casters and was considered one of the best in the sport of distance casting.

Original Tournament Box

The box the reel was packaged in, as shown above, is extremely rare. Only a few examples are known to exist and add to the value as compared to the reel itself. Value for a complete package may be substantial. The plain cardboard box had only one label affixed to the side. 

Elongated Shaft

Handle Locking Nut

Exposed Reversing Gear

Internal Gearing

The very early release of this model utilized the handle from the original tournament casters having a large round disk attached to the handle and reel hub. This design was later modified to a more conservative design as indicated in the picture below. 

Collectors refer to this reel as the “Wedding Cake”™ because of the unique spool concept. This spool concept enhanced distance and accuracy as a result of each tier having a limited amount of thread bulk.  The top tier held leader material which provided a cushion during the cast to reduce line stress, break-offs, and to improve distance. This section was hand-wound before each cast. Tournament reels never had serial numbers affixed to the reel. Althrough I have seen a single letter on some. It may have been a production stamp or the builders mark, either way, not important for collecting this reel

 Note:  As of recent, this reel, although very really used in competition these days, was recently resurrected by a top competitor during the 2009 world games in Europe. This 45 year old reel was brought out of retirement when the owner was not have success with his modern day-hi tech  reel. He used this reel in the world games and out cast the best “super – distance” reels in the game and placed third in the competition.   Like wine, it just gets better with age. Their will be a full article about this crowning achievement in a future segment.

MRCC

First Issue Tournament Casters

Dennis  Roberts                                                                                                                   Part 1

________________________________________________________

Second version with lever reverse and foil covered spool

It was approximately in 1961 when Mitchell introduced their first tournament caster reel. Designers focused their efforts with experimental versions in four areas; the spool, gearing, locking mechanism, and retrieval system. Considering the requirements of professional casters, Mitchell engineers made changes in these areas based on performance requirements; distance was paramount.  The sport of distance casting was at its peak and requests for special spinning reels that go further and more accurately was in great demand. Mitchell excelled in this area and produced several models. Their main modification was the inclusion of these multi tiered-monolithic spools that along with other modifications, collectively resulted in an extremely fine distance casting reel.  Reels were sold or given to professional tournament casters actively involved in the sport.  There are two versions one with an early chevon anti reverse and the second having a lever. A total of five different spool types were produced during the years of production.

When Mitchell experimented with tournament casters they realized the spool would be the key component. A conic shaped spool was tested having a pronounced angle of 79º≈. It was determined this geometry was perfect for maximizing distance during casting. Their main goal was to develop a design that allowed line to “spool” off the reel with a minimal amount of friction and at an angle of incident that would be conducive for maximum distance.

One of the first problems engineers encountered was how to maintain the line on the spool during the cast without the line falling and bunching at the bottom of the spool. Mitchell experimented with various materials such as, foil, unpolished-aluminum, and composite material for maintaining frictional contact with the line and to hold it in place during the cast and still maintain good casting ability.

Users of these reels still wanted more “hold” and either sanded the spool to create a rough surface or created serrations on the spool surface so the line would have something to hold.

Mitchell’s Tournament Composite Spool – Circa 1963

Overall, these methods were successful to some degree, which allowed the cast to be completed with effect. Another important feature on these reels was the locking system. It provided a means for completed casts to be “saved’ and prevent line movement. The locking mechanism was different on this version of tournament reel than on later models. It consisted of a large disk that was connected to the inside of the handle hub.

First version with chevon reverse with unpolished non aluminum spool

When the locking nut was tightened, it would prevent rotor movement. Any movement of the line after the cast came to rest could be reasons for points to be reduced or for disqualification. The anti-reverse system is intact but not functional for the most part on this & other distance casters. The reason for this is that the reel is not used for fishing and if disengaged, could cause line movement after the cast.  Skish or Arenberg models, also called “accuracy casters”, are provided a full functional anti-reverse system.

The next modification centered on the inclusion of an extra re-directional gear. This additional gear provided a change in rotor direction to a clockwise rotation during retrieve. The extra gear on Mitchell’s tournament reels was implemented for the benefit of right hand casters.  We will first look at how the line comes off a Mitchell 300 during a cast without the extra gear. Imagine a view of the Mitchell 300 looking directly towards the front of the spool downward.  You will note that the line goes on the reel in a clockwise rotation and unwinds off the spool in a counter-clockwise rotation during the cast. Now imagine the forefinger of a right hand caster pointing down towards the spool and you will see that the line is travelling up the right hand caster’s forefinger which could result in injury to the casting finger.

The extra gear on the modified Mitchell 300 tournament models changes the rotation so that the line will travel down the forefinger of the right hand caster. It is for this reason that right hand casters, who do not have access to a tournament Mitchell with the added gear, use a Mitchell 301 because of the rotational problems.  Even though a Mitchell 301 is referred to as a left hand reel, it is referring to the hand that turns the handle. The clockwise rewind also enhanced “line flow ” off the spool during casting.

The line rollers were the last area of re-design. The MP/ PUM system was tiered to allow line to be stored evenly on the upper level with the shock-leader and the main line on the lower portion. The spool was designed as a two-stage system.

Mitchell Tournament Spool Polished Aluminum – c1961portion. The spool was designed as a two-stage system.

The top section was hand wound for leader material and the lower section for line. The line roller only gathered line on the bottom section of the spool. Spools for these types of reels operate a little differently than one would assume. After casting, the line was retrieved using the bottom line guide. The bottom line guide only gathered line up to the middle of the bottom portion of the spool.

The caster would then take the line, place it onto the top line guide, and complete the rewind process gathering line on the upper portion of the lower tier. In essence, both line guides only rewound line for the bottom section of the spool. The top section of the spool was hand wound with leader material. There were times that casting line was extended to the upper section of the spool; see Part 2 article.

Mitchell Tournament chrome covered Spool – c1962

Mitchell made five versions of the first series of tournament reels. All five versions are the same except that the spool material was different for each. Spools were cut from industrial grade one piece aluminum bar stock. The original first and second offering came with an aluminum spool that was either polished or unpolished. The third version was covered with a very thin cover of foil shrunk-fit to the spool for the intention to minimize line friction during casting. The fourth version was chrome covered and the fifth was made from a very hard rubbery composite.

We cannot determine the rationale behind this concept but it appears it had an effect on reducing friction and minimizing “line fall.”   Line fall happens on these types of spools due to a combination of gravity associated with a steep angle. Sheer line material (usually silk / linen) has nominal adhesion properties thus causing the line to bunch up at the bottom of the spool. It would seem reasonable to conclude that Mitchell, in an attempt to remedy the situation, developed this spool material to counter the effects and to enhance adhesion.  Of the different version spools, the composite spool is an obscure item.

Mitchell also made a tournament reel with a vendor’s name inscribed on the body. This was only completed for one vendor during the course of production of this model. Albatros of the Netherlands had Mitchell produce these models in extremely limited quantities for select pro-casters. All tournament reels were made in limited quantities, which make these reels very desirable with collectors. They were distributed mostly in the UK and US.

The gearing, pictured below, is a combination of slight redesigns and the addition of the extra reversing gear. The gearing in these reels was not a cross-wind or planamatic design. It was somewhere in the middle offering even line gathering onto the spool. Tournament reels can be accurately identified by examining for the extra gear. The stem for the gear extends outside the casing and is covered by a “hub” . If the reel does not have this, then it is an aftermarket configuration.

Handle with locking-nut

Side profile of handle

Two tier MP/PUM line guide

Two- stage spool

Elongated tournament shaft

Internal gearing

Pinion gear removed to expose reversing gear

Inside casing

Copyright © 2009 by Dennis Roberts Ltd:  Mitchell Reel Collectors Chronicles ™  All Rights reserved including the Intellectual property rights of this article.

High Speed Salt Water Reel

By: Ed Scharf

___________________________________________________________________________

This article is a documentary of the first version Mitchell 402 Salt Water spinning reel.  It includes information about the Mitchell 402 and documentation of its history. I would like to thank Dan Hawks, fellow Mitchell reel collector and Mitchell historian, for helping me with the historical information presented here.  

The Mitchell Salt Water Reels

The cover of an early "Salt Water" instruction manual.

Carpano & Pons of Cluses, France began manufacturing the Mitchell “Salt Water” spinning reel about 1951.  It was larger but similar to the popular “Mitchell” (300) spinning reel and designed for ocean surf fishing.  In the early years there was no model number designation, only the inscription “Salt Water”.  In 1956, the salt water reel was designated model number 302.  The 302 was painted black and had a gear ratio of approximately 4 to 1.  The Mitchell 302 was quite popular during that period and was known to be very well made and durable when used in salt water.  It was also used for heavy fresh water fishing.  The model 302 reels that were imported into the United States were designated “Garcia” on the reel as the Garcia Corporation was the sole importer of Mitchell reels to the United States.

1964 Advertisement

In 1964, Garcia began advertising a “high speed” version of the Model 302.  It was called the model 402 Salt Water.  The 402 had a gear ratio of approximately 5 to 1.  Like the 302, it was a large reel, weighing 19-1/2 ounces.  It was painted a dark blue-green color referred to by many collectors as “Midnight Blue”.  The 402 was marketed from 1964 through 1977.  Mitchell referred to the 402 as the “King of Saltwater Reels”.

Marketing advertisements for the 402 first began in 1964.  The ad shown to the left appeared in the 1964 Garcia Fishing Annual Catalog.

Actual production of the 402 started before 1964, possibly as early as 1962.  The Garcia Corporation began importing the 402 into the United States in the second half of 1963.  According to factory records, during the production years from 1963 through 1977, there were approx, 189,313 Mitchell 402 mfg.

Over the course of manufacturing, various improvements / modifications were made to the reel proper. These changes were minor and encompassed the reel body, handle, and materials used in construction.

It is difficult to pin down the dates of manufacture of the “402 Salt Water.” Serial numbers were not conclusive for accurate dating.  It appears that the Model 302 and 402 reels were sequentially numbered as a group. This makes it even more difficult to determine the date of issue.

First Version Mitchell 402

The reel pictured and discussed below is from the collection of Edward Scharf.  This Mitchell 402 reel has serial # 0811249.  It is new and in mint condition.  The reel is in its original box.

Mitchell 402 - Serial No. 0811249

Because of the low serial number and the box design, this reel is an “early” example of a “first version” Mitchell 402.  It was probably manufactured in 1963 and possible as early as 1962. 

US Patent 2,726,052 pertains to the special “Planamatic” gear system inside the reel.  The patent was applied for in January, 1953, and issued on December 6, 1955.  The inventor was Charles Pons and the patent was assigned to Carpano & Pons Co. of Cluses, France.

Mr. Pons designed a special movement of the stationary line drum (spool) that had “numerous partial reciprocations” of the drum as the rotor turned.  This movement was imparted to the drum from the crank handle by means of a special “Hypocycloidal Planetary Gear-train”.  Mr. Pons claimed that this special reciprocating motion of the drum resulted in superior line distribution on it.  The word “Planamatic” came from the planetary gears.  This type gearing was used on some other model Mitchell reels as well.

Underneath the red sticker the word “Garcia” is engraved

Front cover red anti reverse exclusive for 402

The boxes for the early Mitchell Salt Water spinning reels are difficult to find in good condition.  The reels are heavy and, if they have been in the box and moved around over the years, they tend to damage the box.  This box is in excellent condition considering it is 45 years old.

Print text for 402 box

The construction of this box helps determine the date of manufacture of the box and reel.  In this box design the top piece with a 1cm flange is actually slipped down inside the box sides and glued.  This box design was reportedly discontinued sometime in 1963.

Line guide and bail mechanism.

A view of the "Hypocycloidal Planetary Gear-train" is visible through the lube port.

Rotating head, locking nut and main shaft. The red paint seal guarantees that the reel has not been disassembled.

Internal view of the rotor cup showing trip mechanism.

The serial number stamped on the reel foot matches the serial number on the box bottom.  This proves the correct box for the reel and adds considerably to overall value for the collector.

The underside of spool shows schematic of the Teflon drag mechanism and the sticker for the owner to document line size.

Only the first version 402's had holes drilled in the back side of the round handle. The spool is gloss black.

One little accessory that is not seen very often with Mitchell Salt Water reels is the small split head screwdriver that is shown in the upper left picture.

This screwdriver tool was packaged with all new reels but most of them, being so small, were lost by the original owners.

The tool is used to remove the line guide nut that I have pictured in the upper right.

At the bottom picture is an exploded drawing of the 402 reel front section.  The special tool is shown there as part 56.  It is used to remove nut part 16.

 Mitchell 402

Comparison of First Version Handle Design to Later Versions

The parts pictured here are from the following reels

First Version:  S/N 0811249

Later Version:  S/N 1404399 

In the photos above, the First Version handle is to the rear of the later version handle.  There are several differences.

1.  The later version handle has a shroud or dust shield around the mounting screw.

2.  The knurling on the handle nut is much finer on the first version.

3. The backside of the black knob of the first version has blind holes drilled. (Difficult to see in picture).

4.  The screw holding the knob is much larger diameter on the later version.

5.  The later version has a dust cover over the knob screw head.

The handle boss on the reel is also different. The later version reel body (lower) is machined for the dust shield on the handle .

_____________________________________________________________________

Ed Scharf is a collector of fine vintage fishing reels made by Mitchell, Pflueger, Shakespeare, ABU Sweden and others located  in New Martinsville, West Virginia. This article, “Garcia Mitchell 402” is owned and copyright protected by author, Ed Scharf © 2010.