Shimano Breaks the Mold with the Upcoming Calcutta D
Introduction: Shimano prepares to revamp their popular saltwater series with the new Calcutta D which sports a brand new profile as well as a few unexpected feature additions that are designed to alter the look, feel, and overall performance of the reel. Originally intended primarily for saltwater fishing the Calcutta B and TE series have also become popular among freshwater anglers that prefer a more traditional round reel layout. The Calcutta D is not an evolution of these current reels, it is more of a revolution, and features a completely new design.
A shame no 100 size in the USDM. With the smaller palm plate, a 100 size would be getting closer to the 50 sized (my favorite) in feel. Pricing is certainly fair.
A few weeks ago I gulped, and bought the JDM Calcutta 100 D. This 100 palms like a 50 sized round reel and it's casts as freely and easily as it gets. Smooth and powerful retrieve, too. The JDM does have a perforated spool, but I'm not sure what else has changed in the US market reels. Yes, why in the world isn't Shimano bringing over this wonderful 100 (50+) sized reel right away? If they would bring over anything close to this JDM 100 version they would sell a LOT of them. Mine is on a MBR783GLX and it's a dynamic combo.
First thoughts:
1. I like the silver.
2. Is that dragstar plastic?!
3. Liking the grips, the handle not so much.
4. With the non handle side being smaller, it seems like it would be way off balance.
...Where are these made?
If you get a chance to cast a JDM Calcutta 100 D make sure you do. Then you will appreciate the "50" size ergo along with just a bit more capability (in my opinion) than an actual 50 sized Shimano round reel, it's very much a 100 package with the pleasant 50 feel. Think about that. And it really does cast nice in my opinion.
The drag star is plastic, but based on the design it's more than strong enough and handy and precise once you become familiar with it. The metal finish is beautiful. No balance issues with the asymmetrical design, but then most low-profile reels are also lop sided. You need to try a 100...now I'd like to see what a 200D (JDM) feels like.
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Pricing is certainly fair. 
