Shimano Vanford XG spinning reel

Shimano Vanford XG Reel

The new Vanford XG (Extra High Gear) model is part of the MGL (Magnumlite) reel series, specially developed for finesse fishing techniques. The major difference compared to the Vanford and Vanford HG models is the new enlarged pinion, which dramatically improves gear power, resulting in the Vanford XG reel having nearly twice the transmission/retrieval power of previous models.

It features a Ci4+ body, an advanced version of Shimano's original patented CI4 material. This extremely durable carbon material maintains 2.5 times the rigidity of CI4. While improving weight and stiffness, the body remains compact in size. The rigid housing reduces internal part wear. The new CI4+ rotor offers an excellent size-to-weight ratio. The same material is used in the Magnumlite rotor to reduce weight while providing smooth and easy rotation, without sacrificing the strength needed to prevent rotor deformation under increased loads.

The MGL (Magnumlite) rotor is 25% lighter, offering better balance and requiring 22% less inertia, making it easier to start and stop lure retrieval, ensuring smoother operation. By revising the conventional method of building a symmetrical rotor, the rubber return mechanism was moved from the line roller side to the cam mount side. This eliminated the need for additional counterbalance weight, further reducing overall weight and helping lower inertia.

Hagane Gear technology delivers amazing strength and durability. It contributes to the smooth and precise operation of the internal gears. No cutting operations are applied to the drive gear teeth. Instead, the entire surface is precisely calculated through special 3D design and then formed using Shimano's patented cold forging technology. Micromodule II technology ensures extremely sensitive and smooth rotation, minimizing noise during use.

The X-SHIP system enhances durability of the pinion while eliminating rotor twisting and bending. By supporting the pinion with bearings on both ends, it maintains precise alignment with the drive gear. This means the gears will stay in the same position under the heaviest loads. An additional advantage is that friction between the spool shaft and gears is eliminated. This improves spool casting performance, especially with lighter lures.

Silent Drive technology reduces even the smallest play, and internal part oscillations are eliminated to the highest tolerance level. G Free Body is an innovative technology that allows repositioning of the center of gravity closer to the spool, reducing hand fatigue during fishing. Combining hydrophobic coating and a specially designed labyrinth construction for water channeling, X-Protect technology provides high resistance against water intrusion into internal gears without sacrificing smooth rotor rotation and handle operation.

S-ARB bearings feature shields on both sides to reduce the chance of sand or saltwater inhibiting their rotation. To improve casting performance, the new Long Stroke Spool design was incorporated into the Vanford series. Also, the V-shaped spool lip ensures the line releases in smaller loops, allowing longer and more accurate casts while minimizing friction between line and spool. The aluminum handle attaches to the reel body via a screw-in system.

NOTE: Reels in sizes 1000, 2000, and 2500 come with an "I" type knob button, while sizes 3000 and 4000 are equipped with a "T" type knob button. Size 5000 reels have a ball-type knob button. Reels with the letter "S" in the product code are sold with a "Shallow" (narrow) spool, characterized by reduced line capacity. Reels with the letter "C" in the product code are sold with a "Compact" (deep) spool, characterized by a much greater line capacity compared to standard models.

Features:

• Number of bearings: 8 (7 S A-RB + 1 RB);
• Body material: Ci4+ alloy;
• Long cast cold-forged aluminum spool;
• Spare spool: No;
• Fine-tuned front drag;
• MGL (Magnumlite) rotor;
• Gear MicroModule II technology;
• Silent Drive technology;
• Hagane Gear technology;
• X-Ship technology;
• X-Protect technology;
• Screw-in aluminum handle;
• EVA knob button.
• Variants:
  • 4000 XG
    • Spool capacity: 0.30mm/180m;
    • Retrieve ratio: 6.2:1;
    • Line retrieval per handle turn: 101cm;
    • Weight (manufacturer specification): 215g;
    • Max. Drag Power: 11kg.
  • C5000 XG
    • Spool capacity: 0.35mm/175m;
    • Retrieve ratio: 6.2:1;
    • Line retrieval per handle turn: 101cm;
    • Weight (manufacturer specification): 220g;
    • Max. Drag Power: 11kg.