The Shimano NASCI spinning reel is a high-quality fishing reel at an affordable price point that is suitable for both freshwaters as well as light to medium saltwater fishing applications. In the Shimano NASCI reel review, we will look at how Shimano incorporates their Hagane HGN cold-forged gearing and their X-Ship technology for improved power, durability and functionality. This is a 2021 model reel.

Features

Overall, I have to say that I am quite impressed with the quality of this fishing reel at this price point. I have spent hundreds in the past from both Shimano and other manufacturers to get this type of quality. The reel is just silky smooth as I would expect from Shimano, so let’s take a look at all that has been packed into this great reel.

Hagane cold forged gearing – The Hagane precision cold forged gears provide one of the smoothest retrieve experience you will ever have, especially under a heavy load. X-SHIP provides a smoother and stronger precision gear system that places a bearing on the opinion. While this difference does not make itself apparent when you are in the store under no load, the difference does become apparent rather quickly once adequate pressure has been applied (a big fish). The NASCI comes in both a 5.0:1 and 6.2:1 gear ratio.

Coreprotect water resistance – Coreprotect provides you with 360-degree all-weather water resistance to make sure that this reel will last a lifetime – if you take care of it.

G Free Body – The center of the mass of the reel has been moved closer to the rod to improve the weight and balance in your hand. What this means is that you can feel the strike better and that you can fight the fish better. Additionally, you will not get tired as easily after a long day on the water = no forearm and wrist fatigue. This design was first utilized in the more expensive Shimano Stella and then the Stradic FK reels.

X Ship – X-Ship is a combination of features that work together to create much greater efficiency. By positioning the pinion gear close to the center line of the large diameter drive gear, more power is transferred from the handle to the rotor. The pinion gear is also supported by two Shimano A-RB roller bearings. This creates more stability and minimizes pinion gear twist and rotor deflection in extreme situations.

Thick Bail Wire – The thick bail wire might not seem like much at first but it does lead to better performance and less chance that the bail will warp over time which then produces sloppier line management and typically leads to wind knots etc. As I have said in the past, make sure that after you cast that you use your hand to close the bail vs snapping it shut with the turn of the handle as this will make your reel last and perform better over time.

Features at a Glance

• Hagane cold forged gearing

• Cold forged handle

• Composite body

• 4+1 Ball Bearings

• Coreprotect water resistance

• G Free Body

• X Ship

• Thick Bail Wire

Specification