Penn Jigmaster vs a Penn 155 reel

[frugalfisherman]

A regular 500 jigmaster has 4 to 1 retrieve. A 505 jigmaster 5 to 1. A 155 has 2.5 to 1 retrieve. I use the 505. There is no question a jigmaster is better, just don't by a new one. Made in China crap. Get an old one in on ebay or I'm sure someone on this board has a nice one for sale.

[RedBank16]

Have you considered Penn Squidder 140?
Same dimensions as a 155, with a 3 1/3:1 gear ratio and ball bearing.

[frugalfisherman]

Originally Posted by RedBank16

Have you considered Penn Squidder 140?
Same dimensions as a 155, with a 3 1/3:1 gear ratio and ball bearing.

I had one. If you accidently hit the extra lever it goes into freespool both directions. Just a pain.

[Mark G]

thanks to all that responded I picked up a barely used Jigmaster 500s which should work out great I will look for a 505HS on the different sites Tight Lines to all

[bunker dunker]

i have three of the 505hs i purchased in the early 80's and they are all still going strong.i may be a little biased but the 505hs is the best by far.

[Mark G]

I've been watching a couple 505HS's on ebay if they come down a little or take a lower offer I'am going to grab one looks like a great reel

[Mark G]

Can a 500 or another Jigmaster be converted to a HS by changing out the gearing any one ever done this?