Bantam, 20 Metanium or ? for NRX+ 873

[KlingerNOK]

Finally broke down and ordered a NRX+ 873 CRR for pitching jigs. Can't decide between a Bantam or a Metanium to put on it. Due to the exchange rate it's gonna be a JDM, but besides weight is there a reason to choose one over the other? Or is there something else to throw in the mix? Thought also about a Zillion but I am not too crazy about the T-wing for bottom contact stuff.

[Drakestar]

With the disclaimer that I don’t actually own a Bantam MGL (yet?), I have that series pegged for heavy duty use, particularly cranking and frogging. It weighs more than a Met20, too.

I do have a Metanium that I’ve jigged with a lot, and I think it’s a great bottom contact reel. Of your two choices, I’d go with that one cause I don’t feel the need to even try a Bantam in that situation.

As for T-Wing concerns, I’ve only had issues with leader knots on thick line, i.e. 65lbs braid to a 20lbs leader (got that now on my A-rig rod, which uses a Zillion HD). Connection knots on smaller diameters (i.e. 50lbs to 15lbs on a jig rod) seem to slide through the TWS just fine on every retrieve.

[Rodster14]

I own Bantams and Metaniums (JDM and US). Either will work. The Bantam will balance better.with that said, I use an Antares. I’ve fished a lot of different set ups for jigs, but to me the 873CRR paired with an Antares is as good as it gets.

[tmd11111]

I have 2 873CRR's. Originally had '20 Mets on them and switch them out for Bantams, balances the rod so much better which in turn makes it feel lighter. Mets may cast a little bit further but the trade off is worth it.