I bought 2 of the older design, one for myself and one for a friend. We both use the 7/8 for salmon fishing in NY. I have also used mine in Alaska. At first it doesn't seem like much of a reel and the drag is too weak. This reel has been perfect. The only real complaint is that my friend must have fell on it and the reel has loosened up from the foot. I am going to fix it with some epoxy (and some small screws if need be). I have one of the spare cassettes and am looking for one more. I would say it is worth the $50. I think I paid either $79 or $89 for the 7/8 on sale.