TSURINOYA Merlin Metal Spinning Reel Construction, Specs and Saltwater Capability
A full metal body at only 165g is a genuine engineering achievement — you get rigid frame protection against torque flex while the reel still feels weightless on a finesse spinning rod. Corrosion-resistant construction covers the rotor, sideplate, and all internal shafts, so salt, grit, and moisture cannot degrade performance over repeated use on coastal flats or estuaries. Both the 1000 and C2000S sizes use a shallow spool profile optimised for 2-6 lb fluorocarbon and light PE braid, which are the lines most finesse anglers targeting trout or perch already rely on. Smooth precision bearings deliver a glass-smooth crank that lets you detect the faintest tap from a wary bass or pike holding in cold, clear water. TSURINOYA designed this versatile bass pike wheel to serve equally well as a baitcast-alternative option for anglers who prefer spinning gear but refuse to sacrifice structural strength or corrosion integrity.
AliExpress Shopper –
While looking at the original Ranger, the seller recommended Merlin because they thought it was excellent, so I bought it and this is my review after trying it.
1.3000m size is equivalent to about 2500 Daiwa size. The photo is after 20 hours and compares with C3000 series. The body is about 5-10% smaller and the rotor is almost the same. In the photo, the merlin looks big, but in reality, it feels slightly larger at the back.
It’s slightly smaller than I personally thought, but there’s no problem.
2. The spinning feeling is excellent. I used the rear gear without any discomfort, and the rear gear has such a good feel that it feels like it’s not cheap.
If it’s a light and fast reel, Merlin provides a tight grip for a smooth spinning sensation. However, Merlin works better during free spinning. The lure’s spinning feel was good too, but Merlin has an even better sensation.
3. The drag sound is also a light metal sound, which is pleasant to hear. It sounds similar to La Niña.
4.3000m spool is based on Chinese 8-strand 0.8 gauge yarn with a winding capacity of about 250m, and the yarn capacity is approximately 73cm per full turn. Considering the reel size, it’s just the right amount of fishing line.
5. The handlebar gap is 50mm, which is shorter than the C3000 model. This is a drawback. I hope it reaches at least 55 or more.
And the screw specifications are 3.9mm for the smaller side and 4.9mm for the larger side. It seems like it’s M4 M5, but the screw specifications are different from Shimano.
Shimano seems a bit larger so it might not be compatible, but I will check tomorrow. If it’s not compatible, improvement is needed.
6. Among the options, the capacity of the 2000S is too low. It’s difficult to purchase because there are fewer than 1000 pieces. I would like to purchase if you change the spool to the regular 2000 count.
7. To the seller who always responds sincerely to questions and ships orders as soon as they are placed, allowing me to use them for tomorrow’s shipment.
Thank you, and I will add a review after actual use. As long as there are no issues, I highly recommend it.
[Color:MERLIN 3000M]
l***a –
Still without trying the model in question, although externally it seems sturdy and of quality. I’m satisfied as long as it performs the same as another model from the brand that I’ve used for several years, with which I’ve taken countless shots (jaguar).
[Color:MERLIN 3000M]
AliExpress Shopper –
looks like it’s made very well
I didn’t notice any gaps.
not heavy like all competitors
The only unusual thing is that there is no reverse on the reel (haven’t used such before).
The packaging is excellent, not wrinkled, can be confidently taken as a gift.
[Color:MERLIN 3000M]
G***v –
The first impression is good. Smooth and light rotation. Quality materials. Will test for salt water,.
[Color:MERLIN 2500M]
е***ч –
In my opinion, it’s 1000 and not 2000; it’s smaller, I wound 250m of 04.
[Color:MERLIN C2000S]