Hatch Fly Reels were created for the hardcore & recreational angler alike. The majority of the drags in reels on the market today incorporate what we call one to one surface contact. Hatch Fly Reels take a completely different approach by incorporating a stacked disc drag. The discs are made up of a combination of stainless steel & Rulon, & positioned in a stacked configuration. The red discs are the Rulon, the silver are stainless steel & you have braking surface on both sides of the stainless steel discs, (6 surfaces on the 3 Plus, 8 surfaces on the 5 & 7 Plus & 10 surfaces on the 9 Plus). Since braking pressure is happening to both sides simultaneously, the material is wears evenly. Each size Hatch Fly Reel has it's own unique disc size & combination. The benefit is: More surface area makes for a smoother, more durable drag & virtually eliminates start up inertia. Heat distribution occurs over multiple surfaces, rather than one to one surface contact, thereby eliminating stick slip problems caused by extreme heat in high-speed runs. Disc materials require NO lubrication or maintenance The large arbour reels seat is matched into the frame, a solid is always stronger than two parts bound together. Also, by eliminating the screws, there's no worry about corrosion or the reel foot loosening. Ever. By adding dimension to the frame they create a backbone effect thereby increasing strength, durability, & the virtual elimination of lateral flex. The crank & counterbalance are equal in weight, eliminating cavitations in high-speed runs usually caused by uneven weight distribution on the spool All surfaces that come in contact with the line are polished. Then Hatch apply a Type II anodize for a durable finish that holds up in both fresh & salt water. Rulon & stainless steel discs apply even drag pressure & heat distribution over multiple surfaces. They are water resistant, maintenance free & self-lubricating. Model Weight AFTM/ Capacity Hatch Reel 3 Plus 5oz 3/5 WF5 + 80yds 20lb Dacron Hatch Reel 5 Plus 7oz 5/7 WF7 + 90yds 20lb Dacron Hatch Reel 7 Plus 8oz 7/9 WF9 + 180yds 20lb Dacron Hatch Reel 7 Plus Large Arbour 8oz 7/9 WF9 + 180yds 20lb Dacron Hatch Reel 9 Plus 11oz 9/12 WF12 + 315yds 50lb Gel Spun Hatch Reel 9 Plus Large Arbour 11oz 9/12 WF12 + 175yds Dacron Hatch Reel 9 Plus Mid Arbour 11oz 9/12 WF12 + 300yds Dacron ...