2021 SHIMANO Complex XR Review | Comparison w Vanford

[@mauricecason5369]

You really know how to break down the smallest details that the average person wouldn't think off great review

[@Flarito]

Thank you so much for the great reviews and in details comparison! It is so cool to listen about all these nuances!

[@ifishcatfish]

thanks for dropping a line. Makes a difference!

[@philipfalco7304]

I'm glad I watched your video before ordering the Complex XR. I don't need a surging drag! I have a few Vanfords and their drag's are awesome! Thank's

[@ifishcatfish]

well then don't think about the Soare XR either.

[@philipfalco7304]

@@ifishcatfish I figured that when I seen the XR but wasn't sure. Thank's for the tip. I was able to find a C2000S Vanquish today for $360 so I jumped on it. I know the handle is small but I'm heading your advice to stop buying high gear ratio reels for Trout. It's 27 inch/turn. The super shallow models Kida scared me so I went with the C2000S. I can't imagine how much a larger handle will cost or if the 2500 size will even fit in the 2000. Your advice is saving me a lot of money. I also purchased a few Micro Series rods that you recommended. Great deal for the money. Thank's again.

[@ipetgoats]

Great comparison. Exactly what I needed. Thanks a lot.

[@antonioizquierdogallardo2413]

Congratulation for Channel , Antonio from Spain

[@quanloikid1]

The Vanford 1000 handle is 18. The F4 is 18g. The F6 is 20g by my scales. The F6 is a small amount longer then F4, but it looks roughly to be the same

[@ifishcatfish]

what about the handle of vanquish 1000

[@quanloikid1]

@@ifishcatfish 16g and it appears to be the smallest

[@ciufonzhou4723]

Friend and between complex and twin power 2020 c2000?? I am deciding. Thanks for the review, was excellent, truly knowedge.

[@ifishcatfish]

twinpower has aluminum body. heavy for ultralight. At least freshwater ultralight

[@Henry-xh8ec]

Good review. That Complex XR is a much nicer looking reel than the Vanford. I always thought the Vanford was kinda ugly. If only it were a little cheaper. Like you said, not sure if the few improvements justify the price.

[@ifishcatfish]

no, they don't. My vanford also feels amazing after cleaning.

[@edmusa7117]

Thanks for the review Victor! I got this reel and so far I like it (except the drag of course). I hate opening a new reel but I for sure will degrease it after a couple years.

[@ifishcatfish]

My Luvias was tight for a full year, but eventually loosened up. I expect this reel also to feel better after a year.

[@2musiclover534]

Ed, I did not catch the issue with the drag. Do you mind why you don't like the drag? I felt one in hand it felt fine though admittedly I did not fish with it. Thanks.

[@philhicks2167]

I'm like you on matching the rod to the reel or (vice versa ) nice video.

[@ifishcatfish]

i suspect there is more than 1% of us. Closet matchers

[@bobjohnson7207]

I like the metal flake paint and how they modified the essence of a samurai sword into a spinning reel. It just looks cool. Unfortunately It looks like the accountants get there 2 cents worth in the design of

[@ifishcatfish]

yep, mr Bobby! : )

[@BenBreeg1138]

Accountants always come into play, but the tradeoffs are made by the product manager, it’s no different than any product made at any price point.

[@4Paok4Eptalofos]

You are doing a very nice job on these reviews keep it up your descriptions are very informative mate 😃

[@ifishcatfish]

thank you. these comments really help.

[@dannylalumiere6538]

Thanks for the video! I just bought the 2500F6 and I looked at the hedgehog site for the washers.. they only show the complexe ci4, are they the same in the XR? Don’t know what number I need! 😯 Thanks for your help victor, you are always my reference on reels and you know your stuff🤩👍🏻

[@ifishcatfish]

i dont remember washer sizes but i have a video where upgraded the Vanford (same reel) and I put the washer sizes on the screen

[@dennisstewart7849]

To say you are anal about your reels, is kind of an understatement. Keep up the great videos, they are much appreciated by many.

[@mecantric7025]

Hi I fish I’m stuck in choosing one of two reels complex xr 2000 F4 or twinpower c2000s. I normally do light saltwater fishing ‘Ajing’

[@ifishcatfish]

Then go twinpower. I like aluminum body for saltwater

[@bestthingsinceslicedrice]

Hi Victor currious question. Is the color on the handle on the Complex Xr the same with the Vanquish? Or does the Vanquish have a darker color?

[@ifishcatfish]

color is different, not just darker, one has metalic flake in it... its very different.

[@bestthingsinceslicedrice]

@@ifishcatfish which one looks nice in your opinion? Call me stupid but I like the handle on the old Vanquish compared to the new one so I was hoping to slap either the Complex Xr handle or the Vanquish on the new one. So just wanted to check with you since you have both reels and I know you pay close attention to how reels look

[@ifishcatfish]

its not about nice... each handle looks nice only when it matches the reel...

[@bestthingsinceslicedrice]

@@ifishcatfish that is true so you never know till you see how the new reel looks like. I appreciate your response and lets hope the new Vanquish does become available next week. God bless you and stay safe

[@luisfruiz3997]

Good night, very good video and great explanation. Can you help me and tell me what tool, head number and model have you used to open the reel spindle screw? also key number to remove the nut from the casing, thank you very much and regards.

[@ifishcatfish]

i apologize but i dont pay attention to these things when i open them. I buy the full set and use whichever one fits. And now its kinds of a hassle to go figure that

[@luisfruiz3997]

@@ifishcatfish ok no problem friend,thanks you very much.

[@nfcoutdoors7838]

Is saltwater okay with this reel?

[@Fishwitprime]

Hey buddy what was the exact felt washer that you ordered I’m thinking of pairing one of these with my Shimano bantam thanks

[@ifishcatfish]

sorry man but really don't remember. If i didn't put it in the video or in description, i don't remember it.. that was 3 years ago

[@fdsaffff]

the 2 more bearings improve longevity and stablization right? if catch fish and heavy load on the spool.... in yrs of fishing. also the easier release drag... is to make fishing more fun, cause when u catch a fish and it run and hearing the drag peeling.... that's what fishing is all about. i have a daiwa regal, the drag is quiet and also slow peeling which i think is not as good/enjoyable, it goes click click click.. rarely goes zeeeeeeee, also it's too quiet. i have a chinese $10 500 size reel, I love the sound and easy peel of the drag, last time I caught a 6.5lb trout on it and was chased by a kormant, it had that easy release drag and it went zeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee! the best of fishing.

[@ifishcatfish]

the two extra bearings do nothing. Just make people feel good. I have a video where i describe how to make the drag sound of the regal louder if u interested in that

[@fdsaffff]

@@ifishcatfish yeah i made the regal drag sound louder now it's almost perfect. it's about 70% louder now, I like it. also all u need to do is make the spring open up a little and it will sound 100% better.

[@quanloikid1]

Very nice review. However your conclusion that the Eradicator is not JDM would tend to disagree with Randy who specifically mentioned that JDM tackle is made for the the JDM and not specifically made in Japan.

[@ifishcatfish]

Maybe... I thought it was sold in Australia and Russia also.. I bought mine from Australia, not Japan. But I am not 100% sure, to be honest. Either way this is not related to this particular video and i don't want to drill on that here.

[@kratimamnurpujinegara710]

terima kasih penjelasannya..👍

[@Hogwylderr]

Can you tell me what size the handle is on the Vanford 2000? I thought it might be 40 or 45mm. I've looked everywhere trying to find out but I can't find any info on the handle sizes for the Vanford reels.

[@ifishcatfish]

honestly i dont know, and this is not easy to measure due to the angle. But I would say 40.

[@Hogwylderr]

@@ifishcatfish Close enough & thank you Victor!

[@ferst5937]

Nice video once again! I own currently 3 certates, looking for something for another rod. What would you suggest? It's for perch, zander etc. Rod is the st croix xtreme spinning. Still the certate?

[@ifishcatfish]

Certate is too heavy for me for Ultralight fishing. I think the smallest one is 205 grams? This reel is 150. That is several steps lower. I dont know that rod, but high end UL rods require 150 gram reel. I would definitely get something else. Certate is great but with aluminum body its really made for more heavy duty fishing. But if your rod is more than 70 grams... then yeah, certate will probably balance fine, but you are still missing out on the feel of the shimano reels.

[@ferst5937]

@@ifishcatfish i don't do ultralight. The croix weight is 136grams or 4.8 oz. I think a reel of 150g is too light? I want to try something else then certate.

[@ifishcatfish]

Twinpower is the Shimano certate. I like it more than Certate. Better drag sound and better line lay and better casting distance with most lines. Just don't get the saltwater versions with the big nasty knobs. Get the freshwater version. I have review on my channel. But if you are buying big reels, the Vanford is actually very nice in the big sizes. Only in the small sizes i dont like it

[@snapsnag]

Hello sir I_fish, been following you for your excellent reel reviews. I need your expert advice before I will make a purchase. Im choosing between Complex XR 2000 vs the Daiwa Luvias LT C2000S, im going to use it mainly for saltwater mini pelagic fishing and my main rig would be max 2grams jighead only, my rod weights 55grams only 6'8" ajing rod. Which one do you think is better for my use case? Thanks

[@ifishcatfish]

Luvias

[@snapsnag]

@@ifishcatfish Thanks

[@snapsnag]

@@ifishcatfish do you think theres any difference in those ones made in china and the one you got which is made in japan?

[@ifishcatfish]

@@snapsnag i think all Luvias are good

[@snapsnag]

@@ifishcatfish Ayt! Thanks sir

[@kinsannicolas4645]

Love the videos, especially the reviews. Where do you order parts for your Japan reels? Keep it up

[@ifishcatfish]

hedgehog studio usually

[@kinsannicolas4645]

@@ifishcatfish thanks! Keep it up the great work.

[@berteastman3883]

Victor, question. Does the handle fold on the complex? That is a sore spot for me with my vanford 2000s, I carry my rods in a holdall kinda like the carp boys and the non folding vanford handles will not fit in my rod holder , grrr.

[@ifishcatfish]

its a screw in handle. I have never seen those fold. You have to unscrew it. But its almost the same effort to fold it and unscrew it

[@berteastman3883]

@@ifishcatfish thanks Victor. what I noticed with the stradic ci4 was the handle when unscrewed could fold in on itself, unlike how diawa at times has specific folding handles with a button. The vanford handle however will not fold in when unscrewed I have to remove it. Little pet peeve with the vanford.

[@ifishcatfish]

Nothing will fold today on any expensive reel. Creates weakness that is not tolerable in high end reels. I would say once u reac $200, nothing will fold. Even on cheaper reels it will be hard to find today.

[@berteastman3883]

@@ifishcatfish that makes sense, thanks again, enjoying the the informative videos as always

[@huybap8726]

complex xr and the new luvias in 2500 size, which one do you think is best for dual purpose bass n ultralight fishing?

[@ifishcatfish]

shimano for drop shot or jig or sensitivity. Daiwa for swimbaits and that kind of stuff

[@huybap8726]

@@ifishcatfish which reel do you think is smoother ?

[@ifishcatfish]

daiwa.. probably just a little smoother

[@tailslapexplore6887]

Btw where did you purchase the spare spool and how much?, please put a link if you can mate, thank you/

[@ifishcatfish]

i bought it from hedgehog-studio japan, but im too lazy to dig for link now, when they most likely don't even have it any more

[@tailslapexplore6887]

@@ifishcatfish no worries mate 👍 👍

[@woodfarmer8413]

I’m getting a lot more line twist with the complex over the vanford, why would that be?

[@ifishcatfish]

U either put it on wrong

[@ifishcatfish]

Or u create it when u fish. Twist happens when u cast sometimes, fosh can spin on the way out, or if u reel while the drag is slipping. In all cases it is user error

[@woodfarmer8413]

Then why doesn’t it happen with any of my other reels?@@ifishcatfish

[@ifishcatfish]

@@woodfarmer8413 because you dont put the line on them the same way, and then don't fish them the same way. You are looking at it all wrong. This is NOT 'Something that is Happening to you'. It is YOU who are doing this, and you need to think WHAT is that you are doing is causing it. Until you change your approach to the issue, it will not go away.

[@_T_O_N_Y_]

Hello. Complex XR 2000, Vanford C2000S 2019 or Soare BB 2022 2000SS for ultralight?

[@ifishcatfish]

SoareBB is ultegra... cheaper reel. One of the other two, whichever ulike more

[@_T_O_N_Y_]

@ and Cardiff 2023?

[@ifishcatfish]

@@_T_O_N_Y_ cardiff , complex xr and vanfor is all one and the same reel. Only different colors

[@_T_O_N_Y_]

@@ifishcatfish Thank’s you very much 🙏🏻

[@tuomaskanerva]

Any idea what is the difference between soare xr and Complex xr other than light line applications in soare?

[@ifishcatfish]

Drag is felt vs carbon

[@fdsaffff]

@@ifishcatfish how about the soare bb?

[@abcJ-q4v]

does the complex have a different/better drag on the 2500 than the 1000?

[@ifishcatfish]

i dont know but sometimes the 2500 models have a different drag. Its possible

[@abcJ-q4v]

@@ifishcatfish i got a like new one for $150

[@mishahagihiruko1256]

How about the backplay in Complex XR since the backplay is quite noticeable in Vanford

[@ifishcatfish]

what backplay? Like the antireverse slipping? There is all kinds of free play in the handle, but i dont think the antireverse is slipping in either reel

[@mishahagihiruko1256]

@@ifishcatfish in other word, it doesn't match up to the vanquish I guess

[@fdsaffff]

@@ifishcatfish are the handle play the same on complex and vanford?

[@ifishcatfish]

this question is the same like asking is the handle free play on the Vanford the same like the handle free play on the Vanford

[@KnutHelberg]

So, the Complex XR use a long stroke spool?

[@ifishcatfish]

same as vanford. whatever that is. i don't think that matters much

[@greggoryus]

What about difference Complex with Soare XR? Is it just different gear transmission and colour?

[@ifishcatfish]

yes

[@greggoryus]

@@ifishcatfish thanks for the answer 👌

[@GGGG-re1zz]

Good afternoon... What are the difference between Complex Xr and 2021 SHIMANO Sephia XR C3000SHG? The colors..

[@ifishcatfish]

Sephia is a very different reel, not based on Vanford. It is a cheaper, heavier reel.

[@GGGG-re1zz]

@@ifishcatfish c3000shg is 175g and complex r 2500 f6 is same weight.. Only c2000 f4 is 155grams... I think is same...for 175g Models

[@ifishcatfish]

oh.. jesus, i was talking about the old sephia. They made a sephia XR too? I hadn't seen that yet. I dont know about that reel, haven't looked it up as i obviously didn't know it existed : )

[@Wiseguyy007]

So you said " A Complex XR 1000 " Does Shimano make that size?

[@ifishcatfish]

I dont know but 1000 and 2000 is the same thing other than the spool..

[@Elezen514]

Hi can i know how much line can fit on a 2500? Braid/Mono?

[@ifishcatfish]

i dont have a 2500. Check the website.

[@AlinJapan]

This will be good!

[@ifishcatfish]

Alan, you know i will be back to you one day : )

[@AlinJapan]

Sure, just let me know. Another fine review!

[@ivanmahusay4080]

Is it made in japan

[@ifishcatfish]

no, its made in same factory as Vanford

[@williamdougie6213]

I really wish they'd stop using the flake. I think it looks cheap.

[@Fishwitprime]

Ok thanks buddy

[@bestthingsinceslicedrice]

Ive been wondering where your vids are Victor but looks like the KZbin Algorithim is screwing you over. I had to search you up to see how you are doing since its been weeks since I have not seen any new vids from you. And all this time you are continously putting good content. Damn youtube

[@ifishcatfish]

Are u still subscribed?

[@bestthingsinceslicedrice]

@@ifishcatfish yes I never would dare unsubscribing to my favorite fisherman but I have noticed the KZbin algorithm is pushing other content more compared to my subscriptions. Since its not just your channel I noticed that did not show up but others as well and im getting more stuff from mainstream media

[@ifishcatfish]

Really.. i noticed some really good videos lately not getting views actually. Last year that same video would kill. This is very discouraging.

[@bestthingsinceslicedrice]

@@ifishcatfish yes. Some content creators have mentioned this before and looks like now its in full effect. Knowing this, i will always check your channel instead of waiting for the algorithm since its a shame they are doing this to content creators such as yourself.

[@berteastman3883]

I am noticing similar happenings, still subscribed but I have to remember to check in for new vids, getting caught up tonight

[@troycote4503]

Wow! Never seen or heard of this in America!

[@ifishcatfish]

never hear of what?

[@troycote4503]

@@ifishcatfish The Complex XR. I thought I knew about every Shimano. Do you have a Sophia? I put a Spirex double handle on an old Stradic. It looks like a CI4 or Vanford with the double handle. My favorite spinning real that I own is a Quantum Energy PTI 30 with the flip flop chrome titanium coating.Not an ultralight by any means. I also have the baitcaster brother, the PTI 750. Ilike it better than the Stradic FK. What Shimano Reel is it's American counter part? Sustain?

[@F14AB]

🤣😂🤣 the Vanford is truly an ugly reel. You are speaking the truth. I just received a 2500 with shallow spool and 5.3:1 gear ratio. (Yay for slow) it’s ugly but a very nice performer for I think $165. I appreciate your videos and your opinion, it’s hard to find someone sharing their expertise on such matters..I’m watching a lot of your older videos as they are still valuable today.

[@ifishcatfish]

glad to hear..

[@Sweetaccord]

I put Carbontex washers in all reels as they are better than felt as the felt crush, warp and dry out over time. If you put proper grease the do not release with certain lb like you mentioned. 😊

[@ifishcatfish]

No, there is nothing you can do to this washer to make it smooth, nothing. It was carefully designed to behave exactly like that. Also it comes well greased out of the box. Also I have 5 year old Legalis 1000 with at least 1000 fish on it, with original felt washer looking in top shape today. The truth is there is very little wear and tear on these 1000 size reels at least in freshwater. All trout reels come with felt, even the top of the line $450 reels like Vanquish and Presso LTD come with felt. For a reason.

[@Sweetaccord]

@@ifishcatfish Mine are smooth as butter. 😊 Felts warp under load. 😒

[@ifishcatfish]

sure. Send it to me. I will make a video about your butter carbon.

[@Sweetaccord]

@@ifishcatfish 🤣 Why would I send my high end reels to a perfect stranger? Funny. 🤣 Put less drag on the reel and more grease and try again. You're the only person I've seen have an issue with Carbontex. All high end reels use them now for a reason and I agree with the designers. 😊

[@ifishcatfish]

I dont need to try something that I know is impossible. That is the definition of insanity. Which high end trout reel has carbon washers? Give me the model of the reel. There is no such reel. Carbon is just not smooth enough for a 1000 size reel.. There is a reason Vanquish and Presso LTD come with felt. You can keep replacing the factory felt with chinese carbontex from aliexpress and live in your delusions that you are doing upgrades, but its still delusions.

[@rheylaagan6422]

Nice Reel, Can I have your unused Vanford Reel 🤙🏼🤙🏼🤙🏼🤙🏼🤙🏼🤙🏼

[@ifishcatfish]

my Vanford is my most used reel

[@trncel]

I own the Vanford, and yes it is ugly, smooth, works well, but ugly, the black and red theme for the US market is tiring.

[@leonardovu997]

What is your opinion on the complex 2500 F6 HG?

[@ifishcatfish]

that is too specific for me...

[@leonardovu997]

@@ifishcatfish it's too "complex" for you? Lol

[@jojobunny6540]

im here for soare xr

[@ifishcatfish]

thats not even out yet : )

[@jojobunny6540]

@@ifishcatfish i hope complex and soare are identical

[@jojobunny6540]

@@ifishcatfishbetween soare xr and 2021 daiwa presso which one will you choose ?

[@ifishcatfish]

i will tell you as soon as I get mine. Looks pretty and I will get one.

[@ifishcatfish]

I would get the soare because it looks nicer, but the daiwa is mechanically a better reel. But thats not important for me any more. Also, i bet Soare will need cleaning inside to feel nice.

[@mikkolaitinen5688]

Zodias fits Vanford better estetically.

[@ifishcatfish]

good info

[@RikkiHockey]

I disagree. I think the Vanford looks much better in real life than in photos and its definitely better looking than the Complex.

[@ifishcatfish]

i guess there will always be people on either side of these opinions..

[@RikkiHockey]

@@ifishcatfish Tell me how you feel about the aesthetics of the new Sustain FJ? You like that one?

[@fdsaffff]

also u willing to sell the complex to me? hehe

[@ifishcatfish]

No. Hard to find good tackle today, everything is out of stock or stupid expensive

[@mishahagihiruko1256]

Viva le Vanquish

[@ifishcatfish]

: )

[@anchovyal3606]

6:07 Zzzzzzzu drag

[@den_kha]

Добрый день! Вы русскоговорящий? Очень похож акцент :)

[@ifishcatfish]

Bolgar

[@Jessica37323]

The color is gun metal

[@ifishcatfish]

No. I own 11 guns and this is not gunmetal color.