Van Staal VR Series Old Vs New - Gen2 Upgrades

For 2021 the Van Staal VR Series has some inline upgrades. To better classify the evolution let's refer to the old and new as Gen1/Rev1 and Gen2/Rev2.
The VR Gen1 has been a good reel for many anglers and for 2021 Van Staal has revise, reworked and upgraded the series. In this video both reels are detailed touching on all of the added values while still holding the same price point.
For those not familiar with the Van Staal VR Series, it's a lineup of machined aluminum (6061-T6) reels for coastal saltwater anglers who fish the surf, jetty, boat and pier in salty and sandy conditions. They offer powerful stopping power, deep line capacity which gives anglers the ability to purse medium and big game on small outfits. *** If looking for the best submersible reel choose the Van Staal X-Series, their flagship reel.
As far as price point goes the VR Series is in the $500-600 price range which bridges the gap between the many moderate volume price point reels and the creme brûlée. All VR Reels come packaged with a full bail installed and a bail-less conversion kit. With minimal tools and time a reel can be converted.
The Van Staal VR Series has five sizes. The 50 which is the smallest size and on its own. Then there's four other sizes (125, 150, 175, 200) which each have their own spool. There's two rotors (125/150, 175/200) and one machines aluminum body. The body, frame, housing and foot are all one piece.
The Gen2 now has two bodies... The 125/150 and now the 175/200 has an 8mm longer foot. This improvement is helpful for anglers with big hands and also when fishing with gloves. There's no more rotor interference resulting in bloody knuckles.
So, What Else Is New & Improved?
Now the Van Staal VR Gen2 reels have a number of Van Staal's X-Series features which have trickled down and greatly improved the series.
The two most important upgrades are the spool shaft and the drag. The Main Spool Shaft on th VR Rev2 is BEEFED UP! Van Staal upgraded the shaft to reduce flex under heavy load fishing situations. The larger diameter 17-4PH solid stainless steel shaft is extra hard allowing for greater drag pressure with no deflection for a much stronger reel that is bettered sealed. Why? Because shaft flex is a common reason for water intrusion.
The new VR Gen2 spool shaft is pinned like the X-Series which allows for the X-Series drag design.
The VR Gen1 HAD a drag system in which the washers were keyed to the spool shaft. With drag washer wear the spool drops a little bit and the line lay was negatively affected. To eliminate this problem Van Staal utilized their flagship Van Staal's Patent Waterproof Drag System. The most durable and best waterproof drag system once only found on the VS X-Series reels. It's now part of the VR Series Gen2!
While the spools look the same on the reel, internally it is housing a totally different drag system. Just like on the X-Series, the spool hub locks into the pin on the main shaft. Also, there is a new robust style clicker on the bottom of the spool. The spool's drag stack of metal and carbon fiber washers works like a key and keyway. It's completely sealed to ensure smooth, powerful long range service. most reels are only "sealed" when the drag cap is tightened down. Van Staal's drag is sealed even with the spool removed from the shaft!
When looking at the Gen2's the New Drag Knob might be the first feature that really stands out visually. It's what first caught my eye. It's bigger and better but a little heavier It's very similar in design to the X-Series drag knob. This upgrade offers a MicroClick fine tune-able drag adjustment and offers more drag pressure.
The VR Series Gen1 & 2 have spiral bevel cut stainless gears for durability and cranking power.
For all of you southpaws, finally a true lefty option with the handle crank on the right hand size and a rotor that spins opposite (counter clockwise). The lefty options are available in two sizes, the VR151 & 201, in mid Summer 2021 there will also be a Van Staal VR51.
The new VR75 is a gem! It's a VR50 but with 70 more yards of 20# braided line and 39" per turn is great for a variety of light tackle fishing applications from albies to striped bass and much more. The quick line retrieval is great for top water fishing.
What's the same? The gears as mentioned already with the addition to the handle, rotor, bail, arm, line roller.
***If you are a Van Staal VR reel owner with a Gen1 reel here's some information on potential upgrades options... Upgradings VR Gen1 to VR Gen2 will hopefully be possible in the future but it will require a few parts that are not cheap; main shaft, complete spool, drag knob. At the time of this post these upgrade parts are not available. We expect to have more information and possibly excess parts for upgrades sometime in the summer of 2021.
Buy A Van Staal VR Series Reel Today at:
fishermansheadquarters.com/va...

[@mk-xh6jt]

One of the best reviews I've seen ..Excellent job!

[@FishermansHeadquarters]

Thanks it is somewhat dated from two years ago. But there's a lot we tried to include and most of it still stands as current.

[@wolfofrhodeislandx7462]

Wow that upgrade was. Much needed.love my vr 200 because of its weight and smoothness.but always find myself in the surf with the vs after dunking the vr and opening it up to find water intrusion.but still a good reel for under 600 bucks

[@Clambelly]

Thank you for the video.Van Staal is legendary in the Northeast Surfcast community. 1-year warranty is disappointing for reels that cost $500 - $1,000. For that kind of money, the reels should have 5-year warranty with FREE annual service.

[@timmdittmer4654]

Very professionel 👍

[@seanpak9934]

Thank you so much for your very informative video on the new VR series!! I hope you may introduce the VR 201 (or 200 in silver color) as well soon!

[@FishermansHeadquarters]

Thanks for watching and your feedback.

[@ig150]

@@FishermansHeadquarters good video., thanks. What vr you recommend for ODM DNA 10’6” 1/4-4oz. ?

[@FishermansHeadquarters]

@@ig150 VR175 or 200 would be the best match. A 150 would work but it's a little small and a better match for the 9'6"

[@ig150]

@@FishermansHeadquarters thanks., appreciate it.!!!

[@thedetective8150]

Excellent review of Gen 1 vs Gen 2 Van Staal VR models. It appears the Gen 2VR models have tighter sealing to prevent water intrusion.

[@FishermansHeadquarters]

Thanks Brandon for checking out the review and dropping a line. It's good to see the new owners of Van Staal are making improvements.

[@w.r8180]

My gen 1 vr 175 had water intrusion with only one accidental dip in the water. This looks like a way better improvement for van staal clients.

[@flounderwetspot8524]

Does the 51 come with the upgrade main gear or is it just the 125 and up

[@ShorrockPaul]

in real terms just how water resistant are the new Gen 2 VR. it seems to have the same seals as the VSX and is also a unibody design, so why is this less resistant than the VSX ?

[@sgt_paskie_1017]

thanks for the video. So, where is the video to convince the wife? :)

[@FishermansHeadquarters]

Haha it's in the works

[@sgt_paskie_1017]

@@FishermansHeadquarters i got the vr50 already.. I am sold!

[@friscoray2]

Thanks for this video. Which VR model would you recommend for a TFO 10’6 2-6? Sort of for all around, some casting 2-3 oz lures or a few lighter 3-4 oz set rigs.

[@FishermansHeadquarters]

Give us a call to talk specifics -16094945739 - Generally speaking a 175/200 size would be a great match.

[@snipergene]

Good video! Question, with the upgrades to the 2nd gen VR's, why would I pay more to get a VSX over the VR? Thanks.

[@FishermansHeadquarters]

VS X-Series is almost 5oz lighter Titanium shaft and ultra rigid making it the most sealed real available. When moving to 200 size reels the 4.25:1 gear ratio is a game changer on larger fish as VR Series is based on 4.8:1 gear ratio

[@snipergene]

@@FishermansHeadquarters Thanks for the info!

[@Poolstick00]

Vsx are slow and are tanks!

[@LAV777.]

👍👍👍

[@danbolton3180]

I'm having a 13-foot 3-inch Rainshadow rod blank made into a surf fishing spinning reel rod. I'm considering a Van Staal spinning reel. My two concerns are does the foot fit my reel seat, and which size of reel will accommodate fish from surf perch to halibut, with the occasional salmon thrown in?

[@FishermansHeadquarters]

So you know what reel seat is being used? What pound line are you looking to use and how many yards do you require?

[@huanc7996]

vs need to improve/upgrade the vr line roller. my vr 150 stopped rolling after 1 season or few months and the line cuts some grooves on it.

[@FishermansHeadquarters]

Yes the line roller could have used some improvements however if it is kept clean and lubricated the performance is good. Depending how often and hard the reel is used it should be addressed each season. Preventative maintenance goes a long way. Once the line roller isn't free turning braided line wears on it fast.

[@huanc7996]

@@FishermansHeadquarters thanks for the tips, only use it once a week or sometime once 2-3 weeks. each outing I rising it with water and use hot sauce oil. changed the line roller 3x within 1 year.

[@mk-xh6jt]

​@@huanc7996Really?? What a bummer to hear that. I've got one being delivered

[@allenmagrini4392]

Have a VR51, good real. However it is uncomfortable to fish. For some reason VS failed to round the edges of the reel leg leaving square corners. Make the reel uncomfortable to fish. Mistake or bad design?

[@FishermansHeadquarters]

Thanks for sharing! You were the first to share this with us many months if not years back but I can say we have heard the same feedback from others since then. I would say it was something they overlooked in design.

[@allenmagrini4392]

@@FishermansHeadquarters Agree, design fault, but VS of no help in fact no response. I now have a foam tape around the leg of a $600 reel. Thanks for your feedback.

[@ML-nj2vg]

Question, is it possible to go from a left hand Tia right hand on a bail less van staal?

[@FishermansHeadquarters]

No due to design, Van Staal VR Reels are dedicated left or right hand crank. A reel does not have the ability to take the handle off the and put on the opposite side. Just a heads up, all standard Van Staal reels have the handle arm on the left side (operating with right hand on rod and left hand on reel knob). Right handed crank reels are considered "lefties" and have a "1" in the model. For example VR51 is a VR50 reel with right hand crank. Hope that helps.

[@garyjin1743]

HI ! Does the 2021 Van Staal VR150 wheel match the 10-foot MH rod? Will it be small?

[@FishermansHeadquarters]

It would be ok but I would personally suggest the VR175 or 200.

[@garyjin1743]

@@FishermansHeadquarters I personally don't want too big, but 175 and 200 are more suitable. This is where I kink. Thank you very much for your answer

[@dannydnice1]

I'm left handed and I crank with my left hand . It's a bit confusing with the true lefty lol

[@FishermansHeadquarters]

So a "true" leftie means that the rotor spins the opposite way. There are lots of reels on the market that have the ability to swap the handle from the one side to the other however the rotor and line lay remains the same. A "true lefty" has a fixed handle, not swap-able.

[@MrSuperchargedv8]

Whos got the best deals on these reels?

[@2Cool4Ryan]

I have a VR 125B, the clicker seems broken and the drag is silent when pulling the line out. I’m trying to find a new spool but unable to do so. Does your service offer to replace the clicker? If so, how do I send my reel to you? Thanks!

[@FishermansHeadquarters]

We can fix it. Send it in or drop it off. We can also get you a new complete spool if you want one too. Contact us for more details/specifics.

[@2Cool4Ryan]

@@FishermansHeadquarters I actually sent it in and the package was delivered last Tuesday. I gave you guys a call and the guy said it would take 2-3 weeks. My name is Ryan Bui. Thanks!

[@2Cool4Ryan]

@@FishermansHeadquarters can you give an estimate time from the day you received the reel to completed service? Thanks!

[@FishermansHeadquarters]

@@2Cool4Ryan usually it’s a week or less turnaround but it’s hard to know what parts you might need and if we 100% have them in stock. It would be best to call and talk to our in house VS tech for best answer or send it in asap. Sooner we get it the sooner it gets back to you

[@2Cool4Ryan]

@@FishermansHeadquarters thanks for your info. I already sent mine in last Tuesday, January 10th. Gave a call and he said 3 weeks. Wonder why it would take that long. Sighs. No update since I sent it.

[@andrewhirtle3525]

Did the description say they max drag us 8ozs? Lol what?

[@jedediyahaaronyisrael7118]

Which size pairs well with St. Croix Triumph Inshore 7' Heavy Fast Spinning Rod TRIS70HF?

[@chandlerfl9188]

vr125

[@HankG51]

Are rotor Assemblies between the Gen 1 and Gen 2 interchangeable? Say can i use a rotor from a Gen 2.on a Gen 1?

[@FishermansHeadquarters]

The rotors should be exactly the same.

[@HankG51]

​@@FishermansHeadquarters but aren't the shafts different sizes between Gen 1 and Gen 2

[@FishermansHeadquarters]

@@HankG51 The shafts are different but the rotors should be the same. If you want to order a part or confirm a part please contact us directly (not on here) via phone and speak directly with our in house Van Staal reel tech Frankie 16094945739 or send us a direct email.

[@alexanderprince5306]

My brother 150 gen 2 is squeaking when I turn the handle and I havnt used it yet

[@FishermansHeadquarters]

more than likely the handle knob needs lubrication.

[@samzilla1050]

How can you tell the difference of gen 1 & 2 of the vr50 and does the vr50 and 75 share the same rotor?

[@FishermansHeadquarters]

With regards to the VR50's there's really no differences. All VR75's are Gen2 as they didn't make a Gen1 VR75. On the larger sizes like the VR125+ the Gen2 reels have a bigger drag knob and the upper portion of the main spool shaft is different. The Gen1 is thinner and the Gen2 is thicker.

[@FishermansHeadquarters]

Yes the VR50 & VR75 share the same rotor.

[@chrisjones720]

I just bought a VR 125 Gen 2 and I bought the VR 125 power knob, can anyone please help ? I’ve been to several reel shops and nobody can help me put it on

[@FishermansHeadquarters]

You need help installing the knob? Where are you located? Any chance near us in central NJ? You can bring it to us or mail it in. IF you are looking for guidance over the phone give us a call and ask for Frankie/Lou our Van Staal reel tech. The hardest part is getting the knob's cover/cap off which can be frustrating. Once that is off you shouldn't have any problems.

[@chrisjones720]

@@FishermansHeadquarters I’m located in Florida, But I’ve been everywhere and no one can help. I’ve been trying to take the cap off to no avail. What’s the number to your shop? I would greatly appreciate that !

[@FishermansHeadquarters]

@@chrisjones720 16094945739 call in the mornings and ask for Frankie.

[@chrisjones720]

@@FishermansHeadquarters thanks 🙏🏾

[@gregoryb3871]

is there an updated video anywhere on how to convert to bailess on a gen 2 VR?

[@FishermansHeadquarters]

It’s exactly the same. There was no change to the rotor and bail assembly

[@darrennicholas860]

Gen 2 is black only.not sure

[@dannydnice1]

I got my vr50b from you guys. I'll never use anything else now.

[@FishermansHeadquarters]

Thanks for choosing us. Happy to hear you are loving the reel. Best of luck fishing!

[@hownowbrowntrouttasmania7389]

Were do i get one in Australia? and price?

[@FishermansHeadquarters]

We ship worldwide and have a lot of long term customers from Australia. fishermansheadquarters.com/van-staal-vr-spinning-reels/

[@hownowbrowntrouttasmania7389]

will look it up cheers.:)

[@Machster10]

I'd pay $300 for one.

[@darrennicholas860]

We’re you located in Jersey

[@FishermansHeadquarters]

Ship Bottom on Long Beach Island, Garden State Parkway Exit 63

[@darrennicholas860]

@@FishermansHeadquarters hey man my daughter and I came over to the shop the kid is awesome he help us with everything so knowledgeable a awesome experience will be back soon bass pro shop is out your our store for now on can’t say enough 🙏

[@FishermansHeadquarters]

@@darrennicholas860 Huge thanks for visiting and even a bigger thank you for taking the time to share your experience/review. Super happy to hear the positive story.

[@joseafalcon8691]

no aconsejo el vr 50 es un carrete que no vale su precio