Penn Fierce
- Precise alignment of the gear system
- 4 + 1 ball bearings
- Braid-ready spool
★★★★★
Penn Battle
- Bail arm made from heavy-duty aluminum
- 5 + 1 ball bearings
- Braid-ready spool
★★★★★
If anglers are looking for reels that are durable and robust, they often choose Penn reels. These reels are designed for saltwater fishing and can withstand the saltwater without showing any ill effects.
In case you are looking for a new reel by Penn, you will look carefully at the Fierce and Battle, two of the most popular fishing reel series by the brand. However, before you rush into purchase the reel, you should know its features so that you can decide which reel is better suited for your fishing needs.
Penn Fierce vs Battle comparison enables you to get an idea about the two reels and their distinguishing features, and this makes it easier for you to select a reel that you love and like. So, without much ado, here is a comparison of the two Penn reels based on different features and characteristics.
Penn Fierce vs Battle
Key Features at a Glance
Penn Fierce
- Body and sideplate is made from aluminum
- Bail arm made from aluminum
- Rotor made from graphite
- 4 + 1 stainless steel ball bearings
- Drag system made from HT carbon fiber
- Handle made from stainless steel
- Gear ratio ranges from 5.2:1 to 6.2:1
- Anti-reverse gear
Penn Battle
- Body and sideplate is made from metal
- Bail arm made from heavy-duty aluminum
- Rotor made from metal
- 5 + 1 stainless steel ball bearings
- Drag system made from HT carbon fiber
- Handle made from stainless steel
- Gear ratio ranges from 5.2:1 to 6.2:1
- Anti-reverse gear
Overview of Penn Fierce
Penn Fierce offers value for money. It can be categorized as a workhorse fishing reel that you can use for a wide range of applications. It is affordably priced and that makes it a tempting choice for many anglers who are not looking to spend a lot on a durable and high-quality reel. Whether you are looking to use it for ultra-light spinning or you want to use it with a heavy rod, the Penn Fierce does not disappoint.
The body and sideplate are made from metal and that ensures that the gear is properly aligned even when your catch is heavy. There is no risk of uneven pressure, thanks to the high-tech drag system. You will find that the rotor ensures a smooth retrieve and you will not find the line twisting or getting tangled.
This reel is perfect for freshwater fishing and is resilient and versatile enough for any fish species. Whether it is a trophy catch or something like a panfish, the Penn Fierce does not disappoint. It comes with an anti-reverse system that prevents backlashes.
Pros
- Smooth retrieval
- High-quality construction
- Durable and long-lasting
- Perfect for freshwater fishing
- Right-hand use
- Unhindered functioning of the gears
- No risk of tangles and backlashes
Cons
- Some users have complained about the spool, claiming that it has poor retention ability
Penn Battle
This is Penn’s flagship spinning reel and for a good reason. It comes in a wide range of sizes and many anglers keep the entire collection so that they have the perfect size for the fishing application that they have in mind. The Battle has an anti-reverse system that enables you to adjust the tension of the line based on the application.
Related: Our full review of Penn Battle II
Since it comes with six stainless steel ball bearings, you can rest assured knowing that it will offer smooth retrieval. It is also constructed well and can weather the most punishing condition without showing any signs of wear and tear. That is primarily because the ball bearings are sealed to minimize damage and corrosion. Furthermore, the heavier bail arm, as well as a metal rotor, has a role to play in making the reel more durable and long-lasting.
The complete metal body and sideplate along with the sealed ball bearings make this the perfect choice for saltwater fishing. Whether you want to go surf fishing, inshore fishing, or boat fishing for tuna, sailfish, or tarpon, you will be able to rely on this spinning reel. The heavy-duty aluminum bail wire ensures offers the reel outstanding durability.
Pros
- Constructed for saltwater fishing
- Exceptional durability
- Smooth retrieves
- Powerful drag that does not affect the smoothness
- Reliable
- Comes with line capacity rings
- Ambidextrous use
Cons
- Some users complained that the reel was sticky and this affected its usability
Performance
Winner: Penn Battle
When it comes to performance, the Penn Fierce and Penn Battle boast a smooth retrieve. However, the Fierce has four ball bearings and one rotor bearing while the Battle has five ball bearings and one rotor ball bearing. This definitely makes the Battle smoother than the Fierce.
Also, the ball bearings in both are made from stainless steel but the Battle is more durable. That is because the Battle has a rubber seal that encapsulates the bearings and this protects them from corrosion. On the other hand, the bearings in the Fierce are exposed and while they are durable, they risk corrosion. That is the reason the Battle is better for saltwater fishing compared to the Penn Fierce.
Price
Winner: Penn Fierce
If price is a selection factor, you will be pleased to hear that Penn Fierce comes up on top. Fierce’s price ranges from $55.49 to $199.99. The Penn Battle costs between $103.01 and $249.20. So, that makes the Fierce a more affordable option.
The difference in the price between Penn Fierce and Penn Battle is primarily due to the additional ball bearing that the Battle has and the fact that the bearings are sealed and not exposed.
However, the difference in price does not mean that one is better than the other. It depends on the application. The Fierce is ideally suited for freshwater applications while the Battle is more suitable for all types of saltwater fishing. So, do not let price between a determining factor when you are looking at Penn Fierce vs Battle.
Durability
Winner: Penn Battle
The Penn Battle comes with a metal rotor whereas the Penn Fierce has a graphite rotor. When you compare the two, you will realize that the metal rotor is more resistant to corrosion. Also, the chances of it warping and bending due to high pressure are minimal.
The body and sideplate of the Penn Fierce and Battle are made from full metal. Hence, they are similar in that respect. In both, the bail arm is aluminum. However, when you compare the thickness and weight of the arm, you will notice that the Battle’s arm is not just thicker but also heavier. As a result, it is less prone to damage and corrosion.
Drag
Winner: None
In the earlier iterations of the Fierce and Battle, the drag system made a huge difference. However, in the latest versions, both Penn Fierce and Penn Battle have similar drag systems. The system comprises HT 100 carbon fiber and that makes it strong and reliable. The drag system ensures that the spool receives pressure from both sides. As a result, the Fierce and Battle boast a smooth drag and the drag inertia is minimal.
The drag pressure too is similar in the Penn Fierce and Battle. It ranges from 9 lb to 30lb. The pressure is perfect for medium to large fish and when you combine this pressure range with the HT 100 carbon fiber system, you realize that catching your trophy fish is not just a possibility but also a pleasure.
In Conclusion
When comparing Penn Fierce vs Battle, you will realize that both reels are of high quality. In fact, these are some of the best spinning reels you will find on the market and can be used by beginners and seasoned anglers with relative ease. The learning curve is not steep and within no time you will be able to master the usage of the reels. Once you begin using the reels, you will realize that they are equally good and worth the money you spend on them. After all, Penn is renowned for ensuring high-quality products and it has made sure that Penn Fierce and Penn Battle are of superior quality. You will have no reason to complain.
Related article: All about the fishing reel brands
That said, Penn Battle has an edge as it is resistant to corrosion and is more durable compared to Penn Fierce. As a result, the Battle is the perfect reel choice if you want to enjoy saltwater fishing. On the other hand, if you are a freshwater fishing aficionado, you should opt for Penn Fierce.
Updated: May 14, 2021
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