Penn Prion Schematics
- Penn 1200 (2003).pdf (1.61 Mb)
- Penn 1800 (2003).pdf (1.61 Mb)
- Penn 2400 (2003).pdf (1.61 Mb)
- Penn 900 (2003).pdf (1.61 Mb)
- Penn Prion 1200 REV 1.pdf (303.01 Kb)
- Penn Prion 1800 REV 1.pdf (299.95 Kb)
- Penn Prion 2400 REV 1.pdf (299.18 Kb)
- Penn Prion 900 REV 1.pdf (308.72 Kb)
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Penn Prion: A Look Back at a Reel Crafted for Precision
For anglers who appreciate a blend of meticulous engineering and smooth performance, the Penn Prion series of reels holds a notable place in the company’s history. Though not currently in production, these reels, introduced around the turn of the millennium, represented Penn’s foray into a higher-tier market, showcasing a commitment to precision and a distinctive aesthetic.
The Prion spinning reels, manufactured primarily between 1999 and 2003, were designed to be more than just functional; they were crafted to be, as described in Penn’s 2000 catalog, “a thing of beauty inside and out, like a precision timepiece.” This philosophy was evident in their construction. Anglers would find a strong yet lightweight graphite housing and rotor at the core of the Prion. Adding to its durability and visual appeal was a special stainless steel rear housing cover, often finished with a gleaming gold titanium nitride coating. This protective and attractive layer signaled the reel’s quality aspirations.
Internally, the Prion series boasted a suite of features aimed at delivering a superior fishing experience. Key among these was Penn’s exclusive Rotary Flat Oscillation system. This mechanism was engineered to ensure that line wrapped onto the spool smoothly and evenly, a critical factor for trouble-free casting and retrieve. Further aiding line management was an offset titanium nitride coated line roller, designed to minimize line twist – a common frustration for spinning reel users.
The Prion reels typically featured a 4BB+1RB (four ball bearings plus one roller bearing) system, utilizing five stainless steel ball bearings to ensure smooth operation under load. This was complemented by a silent, infinite anti-reverse system, providing instant hook sets by eliminating any backward movement of the handle.
Casting distance was another consideration in the Prion’s design, with many models incorporating an elongated spool. The die-cast aluminum handle was often foldable for convenient storage and could be converted for left- or right-hand retrieve, catering to a wider range of angler preferences. A titanium nitride coated bail assembly, with options for automatic or manual bail trip depending on the model, added to the reel’s robust feature set. The heart of any reel is its drag system, and the Prion was equipped with a powerful multi-disc drag, designed to provide smooth and consistent pressure when fighting fish. A stainless steel main shaft provided a sturdy foundation for the reel’s gearing.
Several models were available within the Prion line, such as the PR900, PR1200, PR1800, and PR2400, each with specific line capacities, weights, and a consistent 5.2:1 gear ratio, offering a balance of speed and power suitable for a variety of freshwater and inshore applications. These reels were often paired with Penn Prion rods, which were designed for bass, general freshwater, and inshore saltwater species.
While the Prion series eventually ceased production, with some speculating that its overseas manufacturing origin (often noted as Japan) may have influenced its market longevity among a customer base loyal to Penn’s American-made heritage, it remains a noteworthy chapter. For those who owned them, or for collectors today, the Penn Prion reels represent a period when Penn aimed to deliver a spinning reel that combined advanced features, refined aesthetics, and the promise of high performance on the water.
