This review dives deep into the Savage Gear Finezze HD4 and HD8 braided fishing lines, two high-performance options designed for discerning anglers. We'll explore the key differences between the four-carrier HD4 and the eight-carrier HD8, examining their distinct textures, casting performance, and overall feel. Both lines boast incredibly accurate diameters, a feature often lacking in competing brands, resulting in superior sensitivity and strength. We'll also cover practical tips for loading, maintaining, and maximizing the lifespan of these exceptional braids.Beyond the core performance aspects, this review will delve into the innovative packaging and included accessories. From the ingenious spool dispenser design to the helpful braid connector and counter braid, we'll assess the added value and convenience these features provide. Ultimately, we'll determine whether the Savage Gear Finezze HD4 and HD8 justify their price point, considering their performance, durability, and the overall angler experience they offer. Prepare to discover why these braids are a serious contender in the world of high-performance fishing lines.
Pros And Cons
- Very high density of super PE fibers
- Tight pitch, feels rigid and tight
- Great for spinning reels
- Feels very thin for its diameter
- True diameter (close to stated diameter)
- Available in gunmetal smoke gray and high-visibility UV yellow
- Available in 120m and 300m packs and bulk spools
- Packaging works as a spool dispenser for single-handed spooling
- Braking strength might be less than expected for its diameter due to true diameter being thinner than many competitors
- Woven from eight carriers, feels smooth and silky
- Feels very round
- True diameter (close to stated diameter)
- Available with counter braid
- Made with 10m intervals of white, yellow, green, orange, and blue markings
- Black mark for each meter and pink mark for each 5m for precise depth counting
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HD4 vs. HD8: A Comparison of Braids
The Savage Gear Finezze braid range features two distinct options: the HD4 and the HD8. The HD4, constructed from four high-tenacity Super PE fibers, offers a tight, rigid feel, making it ideal for spinning reels. Its tightly woven structure provides excellent casting performance and a remarkably thin diameter for its strength.
In contrast, the HD8, woven from eight carriers, boasts a smoother, more silky texture. This results in a rounder feel and enhanced casting smoothness, making it a versatile choice for various fishing applications. Both braids offer a truly accurate diameter, ensuring consistent performance and reliability.
Diameter, Strength, and Real-World Performance
A key feature of both HD4 and HD8 is their accurate diameter. Unlike many braids that overstate their diameter, these maintain a true thinness. For example, the 0.13mm HD4 feels significantly thinner than comparable braids on the market, and the HD8's 0.16mm diameter is equally impressive.
While the breaking strength might seem lower than expected given the thin diameter (7.8kg/17lb for HD4 and 25lb for HD8), this is due to the accurate diameter measurement. You're getting exactly what's advertised: a strong yet incredibly thin and sensitive line.
Packaging and Practical Usage Tips
The Savage Gear Finezze braid packaging is cleverly designed to double as a spool dispenser. This convenient feature allows for single-handed line loading directly from the packaging to your reel, streamlining the setup process considerably.
When working with the finer HD4 diameters (0.06mm, 0.08mm, and 0.10mm), using a braid connector is highly recommended to prevent knot slippage and maintain breaking strength. This accessory allows for seamless connections to your lures without compromising line integrity.
Braid Connector and Counter Braid
The simple yet effective braid connector is a small metal piece with a spike and loop, enabling easy connection and preventing line loss. By creating a loop in the braid and securing it on the spike, then wrapping the braid around the stem, a strong, reliable connection is achieved without compromising strength.
Savage Gear also offers a counter braid with 10-meter intervals marked in distinct colors (white, yellow, green, orange, and blue), alongside black 1-meter and pink 5-meter markings. This aids in precise depth control when fishing.
Loading Braid onto a Baitcaster
Loading braid directly onto the spool of a baitcaster without backing is made easier with a simple trick. Using sports tape on the spool's core prevents the braid from slipping. After securing the tape, thread the line, then attach it to the end of the tape.
Then, using pliers or scissors, grab the braid and secure it to the spool. Finally, tie a sliding knot to the core, ensuring the braid is securely in place before spooling.
Maintaining Your Braid
To maintain your braid's performance and prolong its life, regularly apply silicone spray. This helps restore the silicone treatment lost during fishing and helps preserve casting performance and breaking strength.
After each fishing trip, a light application of silicone spray to the spool will make your braid smoother, more durable and increase its lifespan. This simple maintenance step will help keep your braid performing at its best.
Conclusion: Is Savage Gear Finezze Braid Worth It?
The Savage Gear Finezze HD4 and HD8 braids offer impressive performance thanks to their accurate diameters, ensuring high sensitivity and casting performance. The HD4’s rigid feel is great for precise casts, while the HD8’s smooth texture is excellent for a variety of techniques. The included braid connector makes using thinner lines much easier.
The convenient packaging and clever design features, such as the spool dispenser and counter braid, add further value. While not the cheapest option on the market, the superior quality, accurate measurements, and thoughtful additions make the Savage Gear Finezze braids a worthwhile investment for serious anglers.