The Finesse Tune Brake (FTB) system, which is adopted in Shimano’s bait reels, is a magnetic brake system that eliminates the brake unit from the spool, making it the lightest spool in Shimano’s bait finesse history.
This allows the angler to make a low-trajectory approach without any problems while bait finesse fishing.
To maximize the performance of lightweight lures and achieve optimal low-trajectory casting, reducing the spool weight becomes essential. In the past, anglers turned to blanking techniques, carefully removing sections of the spool to achieve this goal. However, the true potential of weight reduction remained constrained by the presence of the brake unit, limiting the overall impact on casting efficiency.
Shimano's innovative “FTB” brake system is specifically designed for bait finesse fishing. By removing the brake unit from the spool, this system significantly reduces weight and minimizes spool inertia, enhancing overall performance.
A reduced inertia in the spool enhances its rotational responsiveness, enabling anglers to cast with less effort. This improvement allows for more advanced casting techniques, such as low trajectory casts just above the water's surface or skipping casts over obstacles. As a result, anglers can achieve greater precision and control in their casting techniques.
How does the magnetic brake in the FTB system differ from traditional magnetic brakes?
In conventional systems, a magnetized component in the spool is essential for managing its rotation. In contrast, the FTB system eliminates the need for this additional component by applying a magnetic force directly to the spool itself. This innovation not only enhances control but also significantly reduces the overall weight of the spool.
The new FTB system, featured on models like the Aldebaran BFS and Calcutta Conquest BFS, incorporates a magnetic ring within the dial case. When the brake is set to its minimum, the magnetic force is retracted and reduces its impact on the spool.
This helps anglers perform low-trajectory flip casts with an ultralight lure.
Furthermore, the enhanced range of movement in the brake unit facilitates more precise adjustments, significantly improving responsiveness to various situations.
Shimano's reel design concept aims for “eternally smooth reeling.” The result is HAGANE. Shimano honed its proprietary metal processing technologies with precision cold-forging technology and refined them over many years to develop reels that only Shimano could deliver.
Shimano’s "MGL SPOOL Ⅳ" features a reverse-tapered shape that is ultra-thin and designed for extremely low inertia.
It winds the line evenly and consistently. A well-spooled, balanced spool reduces spool vibration during casting, resulting in improved performance.
The SVS centrifugal brake system offers precise casting capability thanks to its exceptional casting accuracy. This design allows anglers to hit their intended targets effortlessly, enjoying the benefits of lightweight reels that enhance performance with exciting line leaps and long-distance casts.
Shimano’s innovative “CORESOLID BODY” features a design that expertly balances exceptional rigidity with a compact form, making it easy to hold and maneuver with a simple palming technique, the standard method for gripping a baitcasting reel.