Thanks for the info. I was beginning to think no one cared. By the number of respondents in that link, the subject has probably run its course. I have been considering purchasing a
Van Staal for a while now. All I want is to own and use something really special, the best. This life long fisherman of modest means will never own a Mercedes or travel to exotic locales with an Orvis guide, but I could spring for a top notch reel if the quality will enhance the sport I'm passionate about. After my initial dissapointment at seeing the "Made In China" imprint on my newest Penn reel, it proved to perform no better or worse than any other reel I own. It does what it is supposed to do. Do I need a nearly $700.00 reel, nope. So time will tell. Thanks again for responding. Think Spring!