Monday, January 20, 2014

The Orvis Battenkill I Large Arbor Reel Made in England

Guys I just wanted to share a couple of my finds as I replace my fly fishing equipment. I was lucky to find both of these Orvis reels for 75.00 bucks while scanning the net for the past couple of weeks.

The Battenkill BBS II is loaded with 4 wt. line and the Battenkill I Large Arbor is loaded with 5 wt. line. I bought the BBS II for 50.00 buck on a clearance sale. I couldn’t believe I got the Battenkill Large Arbor I for 25.00. This reel was used and had one tiny chip on the rim, but other than that it is in excellent condition. What really impressed me about the reel is the fact it was made in England. I sense from reading some of the fly fishing forums that this is really a quality reel. Do any of you guys know anything about the England made reels?

 

16 comments:

  1. In my experience just looking for deals on used equipment, I have always found that an Orvis reel made in Englad was out of my price range.

    Nice find!

    Sorry that was no help to your question! :)

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  2. Hi Bill! I collect and use only Orvis reels. One reason is their reels are made by the world's best reel makers. I'm not that familiar with modern Orvis reels because I only use pre-1970 click/pawl reels, but I guarantee you won't find better made reels or better customer service if you need it.

    I've heard arguments that the England made reels are better quality than the newer made in wherever reels. My guess is the quality is still there, but there is some pride in owning those made in England due to some feelings we all harbor about many things made in Asia.

    Enjoy your new reels, I think you'll love em and don't be afraid to ask for help from Orvis if you have a problem. If I can help in any way, please let me know.

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  3. Justin
    I really feel I got a fantastic deal on the England made Orvis. Thanks for the comment

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  4. Howard
    I am glad you are an Orvis guy; I had two stolen, so I am really glad I found these two to replace the lost ones. I think I have a gem in the England made reel. I am going to use it with my 5 wt. rod. I have already place the reel with the rod and made some cast. I am so impressed with balance and lightness. Thanks for the comment

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  5. Bill it's good to see that you were able to score those fine reels.
    I have many Orvis Battenkill English made reels. They are work horses, and when you do have an issue the Orvis company backs their product 100%

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  6. Hey Bill, I'm just getting started so I know nothing about these reels except that they look nice! Let me know how they work out for you!!

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  7. J
    If you can still find the Battenkill BBS buy it; certainly worth the money. thanks for the comment

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  8. Alan
    Glad to know I got a bargain with the England made Battenkill fly reel. Thanks for the comment

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  9. Bill, I applaud your success in re-establishing quality Orvis reels to your set ups. Although, I don't use Orvis reels exclusively, I can share that the Orvis reels I have used over the years were definitely some of the best I ever owned. In fact, that honor goes to and Orvis CFO reel.

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  10. Mel
    This is my first England made Orvis reel. I couldn't afford a new one, but the one I purchase is like new. I can't wait to use it. thanks for the comment

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  11. Hey Bill, Just sent you an e-mail, Let me know if you get it :)

    -Juan

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  12. Those are beautiful, you succeeded in making this guy in Kansas very jealous.

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  13. Atlas
    The Orvis Battenkill will be my choice of fly reel the rest of my fly fishing days. There a still a few let out there if one searches the net. Thanks for the comment

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  14. J
    Got the email and thanks for the kind gesture.

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  15. a tragic thing to have to replace all your gear, great product and will stand the test of time

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  16. Blake
    It is something I will never forget, because it took years to collect the right equipment that fits my needs as a fly fisherman. Thanks for the comment

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