Shimano Calcutta 400D vs Calcutta Conquest 400

[freelancer27]

Hi guys,

I am looking for a new swimbait reel that I can use for bigger baits (2-8 oz) in Fresh and Saltwater.

My attention is right now on the Shimano Calcutta 400D and the Calcutta Conquest 400. I had a chance to test the Calcutta 400D over the weekend and really liked it overall.

Of course the fact that you can not adjust the brakes without unscrewing the side plates sucks a bit, though I am wondering how important that is for such bigger baits anyways.

What is your thought on this, is it worth to spend 200 USD more on the Conquest?


Thanks for your thoughts!

[DenhamBruce]

Probably just go with the D series. I set and forget my Calcutta D you shouldn't need to be constantly changing the breaks with big baits like that.

[godshippy]

I've got a 300D that I use for swimbaits and umbrella rigs. Honestly, I don't see why you would possibly need to adjust the brakes? The weights on the lures are so heavy anyway.

[Dalleinf]

I have the conquest 101hg, calcutta 201D - 301D - and 401D. The Calcutta D's have two brakes activated and I never change the number of activated brakes.
If you feel like spending some $ get the Conquest. Otherwise the Calcutta Ds are great reels.

[freelancer27]

Thanks guys!

Seems like the consensus is that the Calcutta Conquest is not necessarily worth the 200 USD more.

[cndbasshunter]

Thanks guys!

Seems like the consensus is that the Calcutta Conquest is not necessarily worth the 200 USD more.

[freelancer27]

Thanks guys!

Seems like the consensus is that the Calcutta Conquest is not necessarily worth the 200 USD more.

Why are you shocked by my comment?

[mark poulson]

Have you looked at the Cardiff 400? Same basic reel, .1 oz heavier, one more bearing, little more capacity, $100 cheaper.

[cndbasshunter]

Thanks guys!

Seems like the consensus is that the Calcutta Conquest is not necessarily worth the 200 USD more.

Why are you shocked by my comment?

The D has too many plastic parts for my liking and i don't like the drag star.

[mark poulson]

Correction. $250 cheaper. Wow!

[karirick]

Correction. $250 cheaper. Wow!

This site is not normally the best place to ask "is this higher end reel worth $$$ more than a model or 2 down ", but I will say the Conquest is probably one of those extra special reels that is a true notch above in almost every way if someone has the budget to get one.

I've barely fished my Conquest or Calcutta D's, but I literally smile when I pick up the Conquest, it may be the finest piece of fishing equipment I personally have ever held in my hands, including my Stella's.

You can't go wrong with either for sure, so good luck with whatever you purchase.

Rick