THE 14000 XSC – ONE MINT AERO
Tests the latest model from Shimano’s Power Aero range of fixed spool reels
RLiam Gunn
eigning supreme at the apex when it comes to crafting lightweight, high-quality reels capable of handling anything the diverse UK coastline could throw up is Shimano. Upon catching wind of a new offering from them, my attention was piqued - much like the ears of a faithful old dog at the mere mention of the word “walk”. Having used predecessors within the established Power Aero series, I couldn’t help but wonder how this fresh addition would compare to its older counterparts and other reels within Shimano’s expertise-laden range.
Driven by an almost obsessive curiosity, I embarked on a quest to get hold of one, eventually securing it for a thorough workout. Unboxing the reel, I was met with sheer joy as I discovered that Shimano had listened - the spare spool accompanying the Aero 14000 XSC was an exact match to the one already on the reel. is marks a departure from the norm where spare spools typically have a different fit and finish. Both spools, configured in the hybrid style to accommodate both braid and monofilament, are capable of holding an impressive 300m of 0.45mm line. is generous capacity ensures it can be used in the very deepest waters along the UK shoreline and beyond, with ample reserve for a long run from a specimen fish! For enthusiasts of fine braids or tapered monofilament lines, the inclusion of spool spacers is a thoughtful touch. With options in both 6,000 and 10,000 sizes, this proves especially handy when dealing with fine diameter lines, eliminating the need for an excessive amount additional backing that would never see the light of day. e reel exudes quality, featuring a distinctive two-tone finish that makes it stand out from the more polished aesthetics of some other surf reels. e solid aluminium Hagane body, coupled with rigid cast technology, instils unwavering confidence during battles with large fish and when powercasting substantial baits and leads. Remarkably, this technology eliminates any movement at the reel seat, a surprising feature considering the reel’s focus on distance surf casting rather than handling large fish and rough terrain.
ON TEST
In action, the reel surpasses expectations, delivering that quintessential Shimano smoothness. Crafted with precision, the Shimano team has minimised rattling, weaknesses and moving parts, resulting in a buttery smooth, silent retrieve.
e XSC 14000 boasts a significantly enhanced pinion gearing, complementing the drive gear to ensure perfect alignment at all times. is allows you to effortlessly winch large fish under immense pressure without hesitation. ink rays, eels and tope! is reel will cope with each and ask for more!
e reel’s robust sealing throughout the body makes it highly water-resistant. Featuring a distinctly different layout compared to its predecessors, the reel minimises water ingress by reducing the amount of screws and plates on the reel body.
A standout feature is the quick-drag mechanism, allowing for swift adjustments from a light-set drag to a stern fighting drag in a few clicks. Remarkably, the reel boasts an impressive 20kg of drag - a force capable of pulling the average angler off their feet, a testament to its incredible prowess. roughout extensive testing, I pushed the reel to its limits in various environments - from shallow sandy bays with fine braids and tapered leaders, to blasting out large fish baits in rugged grounds after specimen cod.
e Power Aero XSC not only met, but exceeded, my expectations in every scenario. I have been able to lift fish up the side of rock ledges and bully fish back through the harshest of ground with a new-found confidence in this light weight offering. Considering that my bread and butter is rough ground fishing with reels that are twice the weight, I am still in shock at how well the Aero XSC stacks up against the more robust options in my evergrowing reel collection - I might never look at them the same way! I can tell you that there is marked improvement in fatigue comparing the XSC to a standard rough ground fixed spool, particularly during those long sessions. e XSC weighs approximately half as much as what I’m used to - it almost feels like there isn’t a reel clamped to the rod at times!
VALUE?
While the pricing of the Power Aero may put some off, it stands as a testament to the old adage that you get what you pay for. e flawless line lay, overall aesthetics and the juxtaposition of lightweight yet robust construction makes this reel a unique investment for the prospective specimen angler. Packed with features typically found in higher-end models, like the Technium Mgs, it’s hard to dispute the extraordinary value offered by the incredible new Power Aero XSC. n