I have one that I picked up a few years ago and it has held up very well, even with the occasional saltwater use. The drag is pretty smooth. I have a 7/8 that I use with an 8wt rod, but I wish I had gone with an 8/9 to accommodate more backing for the occasional striper. With the 7/8 and a 444 line, I can only put on a scant 80yds of backing. I haven't found anything in that price range that is any better, and I have found a few more expensive reels that aren't as nice.