The 70HG may look slightly larger than the XT1000 in this image but I can tell you that both reels are nearly identical in size, except for the 70HG's larger, slightly wider gearbox to accommodate larger 7.2:1 gears. I like the 85mm handle. 80mm feels a little too short on the XT1000. The aluminum dragstar is a standout upgrade in my opinion.
This may not be the best shot... In terms of palming height, both 70HG and XT1000 are virtually identical.
Just to give you an idea of the size of this reel in relation to my left hand.
Nearly identical in terms of size, except for the 6.3:1 gears in the XT1000's slightly smaller gearbox.
View from the the non-gear side, the palming height is nearly identical.
From the front. The XT1000 is one of my favourite reels and I use it a lot, from perch, bass to peacock bass. I like the profile of the 70HG even more. Call me old school. I like my Daiwa TD-Z and the top plate of the 70HG does remind me of the TD-Z.
Though the 70HG's centrifugal brakes require a slightly larger housing, you can tell by the bulge, the reel sits really flat on the rod.
The 70HG weighs 6.6oz or (187g). Shimano website says 190. So, 187g is pretty close. Just a fraction lighter than the XT1000.
Shimano website says the XT1000 weighs 190g. Mine weighs 6.9oz or 194g and that's with a little bit of fluorocarbon backing as you can see in this image.
Spool diameter is identical but the length is different. 70HG is longer and won't fit the XT1000. Bummer...
In my opinion, the 70HG is very Daiwa by design and I love that in a Shimano reel.
and of course very different to the XT1000 as you can see in this image.
And lastly, it's Made in Malaysia as with the Curado series and Scorpion 200.
Out of the box, it's not as smooth as my Scorpion XT1000. Maybe the bearings aren't properly lubed I don't know. This reel feels really solid and it sure is an incredibly fun reel to fish.
No bearing on Scorpion 70 spool
