[Hardyreels]

I use a model 7/8 on my Light Salmon rod and have zero complaints with the reel. Our fish may be easier to land here but I doubt it The drag strength on my own 7/8 is quite strong and without disassembling the reel I'll tell you how I think they work.

If you look at the photo supplied with the OP you see the composite material that makes up the entire hub area of the cog mounted to the back side of the spool. That is the breaking surface and those screws are recessed. When you turn the drag selector toward full on that machined stainless bushing / disc at the base of the spindle rises up from the cage because the mechanism inside the cage is finely threaded. Much like a one sided caliper pressing against the composite disc on the reel spool. A reel in good working order has very tight tolerance where the spool catches into the seat of the machined spindle and once latched they have no play that I can feel once any drag is applied. Mine remains tight even with drag full off.

Since I began using one I've played many silver salmon, large trout and 3 steelhead of good size with the reel. No issues here

 

[Hardyreels]

Thanks Ard, again some more great info
I'm really glad I held on to this reel ... love the sexy look :smokin:


Mike

I really do use the reel but like all my reels it can be hard to tell visually



I told you wrong Mike, it's an 8/9 size so just a tad smaller than yours.

I matched it to my 1984 Orvis Light Salmon 8 weight rod that I've also managed not to scuff up



That's how I spell Sweeeet buddy, with one of those 300 grain single hand Spey tapers RIO sells on small rivers (50 - 60 feet width) it is just a swell rod to use. Managed to get a new rear cork last year when I took that pic and changed lines the same day.