For the past several years, I have a bought one new Penn Battle II reel and cycled the older reels into the backup pile. I keep coming back to them because the price-point is excellent and they just simply hold up extremely well. We're not using them for technical fishing or on a charter boat, so they fit the bill perfectly for our needs. The drag and action remain smooth year after year with virtually no maintenance. We use them on for inshore saltwater fishing exclusively. I expect to buy another one next year, and another and another...

The first time I actually got to use it I casted it with the head of a bonita and I heard a weird noise I normally don't hear while fishing, Its broken... I called the local bait shacks near by and most said 70 to 80 dollar repair for a small fix. They told me just go buy a new one. Screw the penn battle series. I recommend to go buy a fin-nor lethal, they are cheaper, stronger, and built better in my experience with penn. Unbelievable

This reel is a hoss. I have it on my surf rod and absolutely love it. Spooled with 40 lb braided line, this thing casts forever. Smooth as silk operation

When I opened the Amazon shipping box, the Penn reel box was inside and it appeared the factory seal was broken. I removed the reel and tighten up the handle. But heard a faint click as the spool would oscillate to the bottom. Contacted Amazon for exchange letting them know my issues. They were really good about the process and had a second one out ASAP.. I received the second reel and the factory seal was not tampered with. I opened the box and found there were even a couple of washers in a bag inside that I did not receive in the first one. That led me to believe I might have received a used one by mistake at first. I have used the reel a couple of times so far and have to say the reel is nice and well made. The quality appears to be top notch. I have always wanted a Penn reel but was above my budget. But at my age I felt it was time. I really wish I didn't wait so long.This reel will serve me well for fresh and salt water fishing. Spooled up some braid and the reel is smooth with zero feedback. Been fishing for over 40 years and really like this reel and its a keeper and hope to have trouble free use. But anyone in the future who buys this reel, double check the mfg box for the seal.
factory seal and make sure it hasn't been tampered with upon arrival.

My primary use for this reel was surfcasting in New Jersey for inshore species, like bluefish and striped bass. I used it regularly for one season and it served me well: the drag was smooth and I landed many fish with it. I cleaned and maintained the reel as per the manufacturer's recommendations. Unfortunately, after one season the main gear failed a few months following the expiry of the warranty. This reel may suit your needs if you fish occasionally, but due to my experience I would not recommend this reel for regular use.