Jeez...I am amazed at the Diawa/Shimano fans out there. I have never had either one last more than a season and have alway considered them KMart equipment. I say the Penn 44 or 4500 is the only way to go. They are tough as nails and when something fails it is easy to replace. The drags are great and require very little maint. in my experience...I take mine down twice a year at most and have never had a failure. The Aluminum main gear is a bit soft but I have only had to replace one...of 4 reels in maybe 10 years. I have not boought one in the past five or so years but that should say something for their sturdiness. Match one to a Med action Ben Dorr and you have without a doubt the best combo for the money anywhere.