Choosing the right braided fishing line can significantly impact your angling success. This review puts seven popular braid lines to the ultimate test: abrasion resistance. We subjected each line – J-Braid Grand, Shimano Kyrie, Suffix 832, X9, Bionic Braid, Dogtooth Fluid Cast, and PowerPro – to a rigorous abrasion test using a sandpaper-equipped downrigger, measuring the number of rotations before significant wear occurred. This objective evaluation reveals crucial differences in durability, challenging common perceptions about popular brands. The results offer invaluable insights for anglers seeking the optimal balance between castability, strength, and longevity.This showdown isn't just about numbers; it's about understanding the trade-offs between thin diameter for increased casting distance and thicker, more durable lines. We delve into the performance of each line, examining not only its abrasion resistance but also its texture, feel, and common usage. Ultimately, this comprehensive analysis helps anglers make informed decisions based on their specific fishing needs and priorities, whether maximizing distance, prioritizing durability, or finding the best value for their budget.
Pros And Cons
- Quite pliable
- Quite thin
- Good abrasion resistance (9.8 turns)
- Market leader
- Good castability
- Not very stiff
- Average abrasion resistance (10.8 turns)
- Very similar feel to J Braid
- Not stiff
- Good castability
- Excellent abrasion resistance (24.2 turns)
- Reputable brand
- Excellent abrasion resistance (28.4 turns)
- Thicker, ropey, and waxier
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J-Braid Grand: The Market Leader
J-Braid Grand, a popular choice among anglers, boasts a reputation as a market leader. Its 20-pound test, 0.23mm thickness places it squarely in the mainstream. Anecdotal evidence suggests good castability and knot strength, although this wasn't rigorously tested here.
The abrasion test yielded surprising results. After an average of 10.8 rotations on the sandpaper-equipped downrigger, it showed significant wear. Considering its market dominance, this abrasion performance was a notable observation.
Shimano Kyrie: Thin and Castable, but Weak?
The Shimano Kyrie, significantly thinner at 0.18mm, is often used in lighter applications (6-10 pounds). Personal experience confirms its excellent castability. However, the abrasion resistance test was underwhelming.
The line started to show wear around 6-8 rotations and averaged a mere 7.5 rotations before significant damage. This was unexpected, given its known casting performance. The test highlights a trade-off between thinness and durability.
Suffix 832: The Unexpected Champion
Suffix 832, with a thickness identical to J-Braid Grand (0.23mm), provides a similar feel in terms of pliability and knot strength. Its casting performance is also reported to be excellent.
The abrasion test results for Suffix 832 were astonishing. It consistently reached 20-28 rotations, averaging an impressive 24.2 rotations. This far surpassed all other lines tested, highlighting its exceptional abrasion resistance.
X9: A Pliable Alternative
X9, a relatively new braid, stands out with its pliability and thin diameter (0.17mm). Unlike other brands, it offers a soft feel, unlike the stiffer Fireline. Its thin profile should improve casting distance.
In the abrasion test, X9 performed similarly to J-Braid, averaging 9.8 rotations. Its thinner diameter and comparable performance to the market leader suggest it as a strong contender.
Bionic Braid: Cult Favorite with High Abrasion Resistance
Bionic Braid, a popular choice among anglers targeting jacks, has developed a cult following. It features a noticeably stiffer, ropier feel compared to other tested lines. While the exact diameter wasn't specified, it's a heavier line.
The abrasion test results were exceptionally high. This line consistently reached the high teens and low twenties during testing, averaging 18.6 rotations, making it a serious contender for abrasion resistance.
Dogtooth Fluid Cast: Budget-Friendly Performer
Dogtooth Fluid Cast is a budget-friendly option with a 0.18mm diameter, comparable to the Kyrie. However, it exhibits a stiffer, ropier texture than other lines in this test.
Despite its lower cost, it performed surprisingly well in the abrasion test, averaging 17.4 rotations. This places it firmly in the mid-range, outperforming the Kyrie but falling short of the top performers.
PowerPro: The Thickest and Strongest
PowerPro, a well-established brand, is known for its thickness and strength. At 0.24mm, it's the thickest line tested here, exhibiting a noticeably ropier texture.
The abrasion test results were remarkable. It achieved results in the mid-to-high twenties, averaging 28.4 rotations. This superior abrasion resistance solidified its position as the overall top performer in this comparison.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Braid
This abrasion resistance test revealed significant differences among popular braid lines. Suffix 832 and PowerPro stood out with exceptional durability. While thinner lines like Kyrie and X9 offer advantages in castability, they compromise on abrasion resistance. Budget options like Dogtooth Fluid Cast offer surprising value.
Ultimately, the best braid depends on individual needs and priorities. Anglers prioritizing abrasion resistance should strongly consider Suffix 832 or PowerPro. Those seeking superior castability might prefer thinner lines, accepting a trade-off in durability. Budget-conscious anglers can confidently select Dogtooth Fluid Cast for decent performance.