Airex Beachcomer Reel

[lasportsman1]

I was given am Airex Beachmaster #1. Does anyone have any info on these reel's? I would like to get a schematic & or owner's manual.
Thanks,
Larry

[Midway Tommy D]

Made in the early/mid '50s. Not a high value reel, maybe $10, $20 if like new. Maybe there's a copy in the Library, ask Jon Kring. Otherwise, watch eBay, sometimes manuals are listed there. Paperwork can be difficult to find so be patient. When Bob Halver happens along he may have some thoughts, too.

[lasportsman1]

Thanks for your help.
Larry

[Airexguy]

When I came online to address this post I noticed it said Beachmaster, now I see it says Beachcomber, so we have that hurdle cleared. I'll help you as much as possible about this reel. This would be Airex first saltwater reel. It would was introduced in 1953 and carried through 56. During that time it was also known as the "Heavy Duty" in 1955. When Airex/Div. of Lionel was hemorrhaging financially they sold the reel line to the Feurer Bros. They did not carry the Beachcomber, at least not in publications.

In a brochure dated 1953 Airex stated it was the first American made large capacity reel. It was perfect for saltwater and heavy fresh water fishing. It has a full bail roller pickup, a capacity of 270 yds. of 15 lb. Mono. line and a anti-corrosive construction. The gear ratio is 3.88 to 1. Airex says this reel has a life time guarantee.

Its most often found without the box, however if you find a box the bluish silver paper is most often faded to a point the graphics are gone. Sometimes the reel box insert was blue in color, but orange was also used. I've found a generic instruction sheet of sorts with this reel and also my favorite, a nice booklet with a surf fisherman on the front.

The parts I see most often affected by poor cleaning after saltwater use is; a stuck bail wire roller and a corroded line spool. I have those parts available, new.

Sometime in production the raised "Beachcomber" letters were painted white and sometimes silver.

As far as most collectors go its not the first one they will pick, unless it has a nice box. Same goes for the 350 Mastereel Saltwater model. If you need anymore information or help, just contact me.

[lasportsman1]

Thanks very much for your help. I am trying to find for a manual for this reel at this time.

Thanks for all the info.

Larry