Leonard Mills Fly Reel

[Dick Janak]

I need some help with this reel that I have.There is nothing on it except Leonard Mills..It does have a screw in the left side end cap for adjustment..Can anyone help me out with the ID and model?Thanks...Dick

[john elder]

Anything like this one, Dick?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/252494581375?rm ... noapp=true

Is it early? pics?

[Paul M]

There are some examples shown in this old catalog. See page 38
Wm Mills 1922 catalog

[john elder]

Here are Dick's pics...i don't much like the look of the adjusting screw on back plate...looks like a replacement, but maybe we can find pics in paul's cats that will say more about this model:

[Paul M]

I found a picture of the same reel here. Apparently that adjusting screw is correct (but worn).
http://www.vintageflytackle.com/product ... fly-reel-1

Paul M

[reelsmith.]

Looks like a Model 50.

As Paul said, the screw is correct.

Also, it looks like a very late one made after they stopped using hard rubber for the plates. Not sure what the material was though.

Dean.

[Dick Janak]

John,thanks for posting my pictures.The screw is not worn,the picture might be a little fuzzy.I believe I have found this reel in Stu Lawson's book.He identified it as model #50 with the adjusting screw in the end cap.I have not tried to clean or polish the reel,but it is in excellent condition. It will be up for sale..

[Dick Janak]

The reel is for sale.I am asking $1000 or B/O.I would like to see it go to a ORCA member before it goes on Ebay.If anyone is interested in it please contact me.Thanks...Dick Janak

[Dick Janak]

I have now been told that this reel is Turn of the Century Leonard Mills as illustrated in Karl T.White's Fishing Tackle Antiques and Collectables .page 182.. 1870-Early 1900's

[Paul M]

I have now been told that this reel is Turn of the Century Leonard Mills as illustrated in Karl T.White's Fishing Tackle Antiques and Collectables .page 182.. 1870-Early 1900's

The examples on Whites's page 182 do not have the same set screw as yours on the rear hub.

Paul M

[reelsmith.]

Dick,

Your reel probably dates around 1950 or so.

Earlier reels look like this ...





Note the dished front plate and the lack of a screw in the cap. The later reels are flat across the front plate and have the adjustment screw in the cap.

The earliest Model 50 reels have german silver frames and some have full handles.

Dean.

[Dick Janak]

Thanks Guys for the updated info...

[Dick Janak]

Price lowered to $850........