We hope you love the products we recommend. Just so you know, Fishing Command may earn an affiliate commission from the links on this page, at no extra cost to you Show Let’s answer the obvious question first. Yes. Despite the Stradic Ci4 being superseded by the Shimano Vanford, the Ci4 is still available. However, if you’ve had your eyes on one for a few years, and you finally have the spare cash to reach the (arguably) steep asking price, you’d want to act fast. Follow this link now to secure yours. You’re relying on old stock as the Stradic Ci4 is no longer in production and becoming increasingly scarce at the regular retailers and distributors. Interestingly, the Shimano Vanford is more or less the same price point, so why get the superseded model? It’s a fair question and difficult to answer with science – but there is an argument I’ll present shortly. Let’s review the Stradic Ci4, check out its features, and try to get a handle on why it’s been one of Shimano’s most successful spinning reel series. Page Contents What is The Shimano Stradic C14+? A ReviewThe Shimano Stradic Ci4 is a spinning reel series designed to cover just about every inshore application, saltwater and fresh, and some nearshore and surf applications. The reel was designed to have features often reserved for top-shelf models. Yet, despite its pedigree, it still remained comparatively affordable. The Stradic first hit the market in 1991. However, the Stradic Ci4 didn’t arrive until 2016, following the introduction of Shimano’s famous Hagane construction material. Versatility, build quality, power and longevity were coupled with lightweight, ultrasmooth cranking. The Ci4 became an enduring hit, garnering a very strong fan base. While one angler is tacking sizable tarpon with a 4000, another is casting a 1000 at bluegill and brook trout. Underpinned by quality and versatility, everybody wanted one, and most anglers could afford one. It’s now out of production, superseded by the Shimano Vanford. It’s still available, and the price is still up there and nearly identical to the Vanford, but Ci4 stocks are depleting. The Stradic brand still exists owing to the production of the Stradic FL. The price is similar to the Ci4+, as are the features. >>Click For Best Price<< Should I Buy a Stradic C14+?So why would one seek out a Stradic Ci4 when the new version is readily available and at a similar price point. The rationale, loose as it may be, can be argued. Firstly, the last model of a quality product is often better than the first model of its successor. This is because the old model has had time, experience, and feedback to iron out issues and reach a level of the best it can be. The new model has a path in front of it that may include growing pains. What’s more, the endurance qualities of the new model can only ever be speculative for the first few production runs. Secondly, the Ci4 is a bit of Shimano history. It’s a very successful reel with a very strong and enduring fan base. By and large, it’s a darn fine spinning reel that covers pretty well every inshore application, with plenty of sports potential for nearshore and even off. What’s more, you can get one for 20 to 30 dollars cheaper than the Vanford.
Speeds are a quick-for-spin 6.0, with the 4000 offering 6.2. The 1000 will hold 95 yards of 10-pound braid, whereas the 4000 packs an impressive 170 yards of 30-pound. The Ci4’s 20 to 24 pounds of maximum drag makes it capable of battling even the largest of fish, far larger than its diminutive size suggests. Many would argue the max drag is overkill, and that would be a fair argument. The 1000 size maxes out at 7 pounds – clearly more sensible. Bottom line, the Stradic Ci4 is a worthy addition to the classiest of spin reel arsenals. Let’s take a closer look at its features. Shimano Stradic Ci4+ Key Features at a GlanceThe Shimano Stradic Ci4+ is available in 1000, 2500, 3000, and 4000. Each size has a 6+1 bearing compliment.
Shimano Stradic Ci4+ Key FeaturesAero Wrap IIAero Wrap incorporates a worm gear design with the desired outcome being better, and a more consistent line lay. The line is packed in an X pattern which reduces line friction, promoting longer, more accurate casts. CoreProtectSealing around a shaft is often a compromise. While you may keep the water out, you also restrict rotation freedom owing to the friction from the seal on the shaft. CoreProtect is designed to mitigate this eternal problem, ensuring protection against water ingress while allowing full rotation potential. CoreProtect is a suite of sealing protections designed to mitigate water ingress to the clutch, body, and line roller. Hagane GearHagane gears are at the heart of the Shimano Ci4’s smoothness and strength. The cold-forged gears deliver an exceptional mesh, eradicating movement, which ensures full power is delivered, gears last longer under frequent hard use, and the crank remains free, light, and smooth. MGL RotorThe MGL Rotor is a fancy way to suggest it is light. The idea is that inertia is reduced, which improves casting. The rotor does feel particularly well balanced, and those casting lightweight lures on light gear should see an improvement in casting distances. S A-RB BearingsThe Ci4+ has 6 plus 1 S A-RB (Bearings). The double shields help protect against grit-sized impurities such as salt and sand from getting into the bearings. These bearings are standard for Shimano’s top reels. They’re proven, consistent and great performers. Anglers should be aware that they won’t handle full submersion, and they DO need to be cleaned and maintained. Super StopperSuper Stopper is the one-way bearing that prevents back play. A standard component in most reels, anti-reverse bearings aren’t all created equally. Many are susceptible to impact damage and damage from water and filth ingress. Super Stopper appears to endure and offers excellent hook setting as there is no back play whatsoever. X-ShipX-Ship is all about the elimination of friction. For many anglers, the smoothness and quietness of the crank is the crowning achievement of X-Ship. However, while this is great for cranking performance, it’s brilliant for reel longevity and endurance. With the pinion having bearing support on both ends, it retains precise alignment with the drive gear, even under significant loads. No unwanted movement translates to no friction, which ensures key parts have to endure far less wear. Your expensive reel lasts a heck of a lot longer. Pros and ConsPros
Cons
>>Click For Best Price<< Alternative to the Shimano Stradic C14+Obviously, the Shimano Vanford is the alternative, as is the Shimano Stradic FL. However, there are a few options for consideration. The Daiwa BG offers an excellent alternative and is also cheaper. Daiwa BG Spinning Reel
Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping Last update on 2023-05-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API The Quantum Cabo is an excellent alternative and comparatively priced. However, it’s not available in smaller sizes. Quantum Cabo Saltwater Spinning Fishing Reel, Size 40 Reel, Changeable Right- or Left-Hand Retrieve, Magnum CSC Drag System, SCR Aluminum Body and Side Cover, Silver/Blue
Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping Last update on 2023-05-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API If you’re looking for the best alternative to the Ci4+ that has more features, a wider range of sizes, and arguably better performance, then the Daiwa Tierra is a great option. Team Daiwa Spinning Reel, Tierra 4000 with Spare Aluminum Spool
Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping Last update on 2023-05-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API Shimano Stradic vs VanfordThe Shimano Vanford is a very worthy successor to the famous Ci4+. Firstly, the range has increased, with a 500 and a 5000 now offered. Secondly, the Vanford receives an extra bearing over the Ci4+, and although the weight has slightly increased, it’s negligible. Drag capacities are still exceptional, as are spool capacities. The Vanford also gets a Free G body, Micromodule II gears, Silent Drive, and a Long Stroke Spool. The Ci4 body and MGL rotor is retained, as are the X-Protect sealing and X-ship. Ultimately, the Vanford has built on the Stradic Ci4, and added some significant features and performance enhancements, yet kept the price increase minimal. |