Twinpower - Local Or Japanese?

[davester28]

Hi all,

What are the differences between the local and Japanese versions of the Shimano TwinPower? The reels look substantially different and seem to be completely different beasts.

There also seem to be a few Jap versions:

1. the "standard" model in sizes 1000 - 4000

2. HG and PG versions (High Gear / Power Gear) in 4000 - 8000 size

3. MG model (Magnesium, which I'm not interested in)

I'm potentially looking at buying one in the 4000 (or 5000) size, so the options are:

1. Local TwinPower 4000FB (400g, 8 A-RBs)

2. Japanese TwinPower 4000 (325g, 6/1 A-RBs, 6kg drag)

3. Japanese TwinPower 4000HG (390g, 10/1 A-RBs, 9kg drag!)

I've been told the Japanese reels are better built. Is this true? They certainly are more expensive than the local model, especially when you consider reels can usually be purchased cheaper overseas.

I would be pairing the reel with a med-heavy spin stick, probably running 20lb braid (or 30lb at a pinch if buying the 5000 size).

cheers,

dave