I have both the 7.2 and the 9.1. Writing this after some use. Just picked up baitcasting after 52 years of fishing. Went all in on KK.
I now have these two, 2 spartacus 2 plus, regular MJ 7.2, MJ Long Cast from the Surprise box and a Roy Leg Pro. They are all paired with KK rods, mostly S2 and S2+, with a Zephyr thrown in for flex between M and MH. MANY spinning combos too, paired with other rods as I built up.
The MJ Elite 7.2 is the standout in the new casting arsenal. Gorgeous finish, gold highlights, and the key factor - flawless performance. The red 9.1 took some patience to dial in on my 7'10" S2 H, but the 7.2 was a perfect mate on the S2+ MH 7'. Using the Silky 8 20 lb test line with a 20 lb Flourokote leader.
The regular MJ 7.2 is great, if you are on a budget get that, you'll have no regrets. If you want to get into the next tier, the MJ Elite is "the way". Silky smooth action, casts a country mile. I'd also recommend the S2+ reel on a S2+ rod, excellent and versatile lightweight and budget friendly combo. You can get it with the Defender, just with the camo print but I like plain stuff so I built my own. Side note, KK, why don't you offer this as a combo? duh...
Started with KK when I picked up fishing again after a long family hiatus about 4-5 years ago. Learned to fish salt growing up, transitioned to fresh in my teens. I guess that's why as a righty both my spinning and casting setups feel natural as right hand retrieve. The "switch" between right hand cast and right hand retrieve has been natural since I fished the Chesapeake Bay with my Dad as a kid.
I just pulled out the sticker collection, and yes, I now own 18 KK reels, everything from a Brutus to the MJ Elite. There may be a MG TI in my future...
One last note. I have made a LOT of purchases in my baitcasting adventure and there have been a couple of hiccups. I'm talking dozens of items. In the couple of instances where I've needed customer assistance, Kastking has been ultra responsive, friendly and truly pleasant to deal with. I seem to get Winnie as a CSR and she is a ROCK STAR.
If you may doubt my experience with KK, see the attached pic. You only get these stickers with reel purchases.
KK, love you all, great quality, affordable prices! Long live the KING!
