Zebco  Fans!

ABU's obvious build quality led to the development of symbiotic relationships in other countries, one of which I'm just beginning to learn about now, ie Zebco in the USA. Mr Clinton Beeler is bringing me up to speed on this interesting expansion to ABU's products in the USA.

I have also been fortunate enough to have been taken under the wing of noted USA spinning reel expert and much aclaimed author of "The Wright Guide for the Reel Man" Ben Wright!  I don't think he intends to change of his book from  "reel" to "real" in his next edition of the book. Very shortly we will have access to much more information (both text and pictures)  with respect to the ABU/Garcia/Zebco relationship in the USA. Buy his book personally from him at Ben Wright [spinrite@rochester.rr.com] before the last 39 of 500 total print run disappear forever. I have secured mine!

 

Zebco Cardinal 3's


First sold from 1975 to 1983
Dark green body/cream cup, rear drag knob and anti-reverse switch. large flat type push button spool, chrome handle. marked product of Sweden w s/n on buttom of foot. weight 7.5 oz.


Rare first version: 1974 early 1975
small dark green medallion, trapezoidal type handle knob screwed onto the
handle has a cone shaped bail at the line guide.

Second version: approx. 1975 to 1977
same as the first version but now has non cone shaped bail at the line guide.

Third version: approx. 1978 to 1983
now has long sticker decal with black rear drag knob and anti-reverse switch. now has flatter type handle knob that is pinned to handle.
note the new style body that was the same as the Abu cardinal 3 tan/black that was introduced in 1978 that replaced the Abu cardinal 33.
 

Thankyou Ben on behalf of ABU fans for your sharing nature in freely providing this info and these pictures

 

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