The Traditional Fisherman's Forum

This 5 1/2" diameter star back reel has a brass rim to the backplate side of the spool. The wing nut provides tension. The handles are ebony. My questions are: is this a saltwater reel, is the brass element meant to prevent backplate distortion and who might the manufacturer be?

An interesting question that I have often wondered about.

I think the back plate was made from brass to stop it soaking up water, swelling and jamming the reel.

Phil Arnott wrote:I think the back plate was made from brass to stop it soaking up water, swelling and jamming the reel.

Good shout Phil, obvious now you've mentioned it

The patent relates to a brass ring around the inside of the back plate for added strength.
They also made them with aluminium spool plate as well.