Shimano Baitrunner 6500B vs 6000D

[MrAC1980]

Hey guys what's the difference between the baitrunner 6500B vs 6000D? I have a 6500B and was contemplating picking up another or just going with the new 6000D. The 6000 is a tad lighter and I love the power knob. Maybe while you're at it, whats reviews on the OC model?? Thanks for the feedback.

[NoWorries]

I have 2 of the older model 6500B baitrunners.They are discontinued. You may find some new ones around but have not been around for a few years. They are workhorse reels and have served me well for many seasons. The newer model D series has more bearings and is more expensive. I have not used it. Not 100% percent on this. :D

[MrAC1980]

Decisions decisions lol. I'm leaning towards a new 6000d.

[stevejordan]

the older one clicks louder

[Gerry Zagorski]

Not sure this will help you Marc but I have the 8000D... I had the earlier Shimano Bait Runners 3500 and 4500 reels and they were troublesome. Sticky bails, bad anti reverse gears. Took them in for servicing a few times but the problems persisted so I got sour on them.

Wife bought me the 8000d as a surprise present and it is vastly improved over the older bait runners. I really like the new design. They are beefed up, more bearings and the 8000d has a maintainence port on it so you don't have to take the side plate totally off to lube inside.

Had it for 2 years now and as far as spinners, it's my go to.

[MrAC1980]

Thanks Gerry! And btw it's MrAC to you! LoL! (Anthony).
Got my eye out for a 6000D!

[Badreddog]

I checked out the bait runners at the Somerset show at the Shimano booth. I got sold on the 6000. I have 3500 and a 4500 bait runners. Both still work well after 20 years of fishing. But I got a new rod that should get a new reel. Does anyone know if the handle from the 6000 fits the 4000. The 4000 is better for my new rod.

[CancunPete]

MrAC...used the 6000 for sailfish in Mexico and it holds up really well ...Nice to have the over sized handle too......I have one set up on a Star rod .....Come on down to the shop ....Will let you try it out ...Pete

[MVP]

How does the 600D compare in size to the 3500 and 4500

[arat]

If you have the older 6500 and you want a similar sized reel then you want the 12000. I think its pretty big and I have found that the 8000 is the best seller. The difference between the 6000 and 8000 is line capacity and weight. And believe it or not the 6000 is the heavier reel I would get the 8000

Arat

[MrAC1980]

I played around with the 6000D at one of the shows and it felt kinda plasticy to me and a little cheap. Ended up finding a buddy with a 6500 that was barely used and was able to pick it up for 75bucks. I couldn't resist.