Shakespeare Beetzsel with drag

[Reelman2]

I just saw a Shake Beetzsel with a drag. I never knew that a drag was ever put on any Beetzsel. Did the owner do this or is it perhaps a factory add on. Does it add any value to the reel if so.

[Ron Mc]

Cub drag was an aftermarket part - should work on any reel if the handle matches the main gear shaft.

[Reelman2]

The drag knob on this reel is like on an 1131-A South Bend reel. It is on the face plate not the handle. Ordinarily there isn't even a hole for a drag knob on Beetzsels.

[Ron Mc]

that's why photos work.
The 1131A face plate knob adjusts stand-off of the spool brake (wool felt pad), controlled by the ABL line bail.


never seen a Beetzel that way, but would like to

this is the only photo I have of my Meek 30, but it has the same kind of spool brake, and works quite well, though touchy adjustment.

[Reelman2]

Go to the bay and type in Antique Shakespeare Beetzsel fishing reel-patented 1906-1915.
225330853077

[Steve]

It's a modified, non-Shakespeare Beetzsel. The knob probably just screws against the spool for drag. A sliding button was removed from the oval hole in the headcap.
Actual Shakespeare Beetzsel:

Headcap hole:

View of added brake knob: