**How to Choose Between the Vintage Ocean City #35 & Wards Sport King 60-6432 Fly Fishing Reel (Both Working)**
As a passionate angler, selecting the right fly fishing reel can make or break your experience on the water. Vintage reels, in particular, offer a unique blend of craftsmanship, history, and functionality. Two standout models—the **Ocean City #35** and the **Wards Sport King 60-6432**—are highly sought after by collectors and fishing enthusiasts alike. If you’re torn between these two classics, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
### **1. Historical Background & Build Quality**
Both reels hail from the golden era of American tackle manufacturing, but their origins differ.
– **Ocean City #35**: Produced by the Ocean City Manufacturing Company (later acquired by Penn), this reel is renowned for its rugged simplicity. The #35 model features a **stamped metal construction**, a **click-and-pawl drag system**, and a **classic black finish**. Its durability makes it ideal for saltwater and heavy freshwater use.
– **Wards Sport King 60-6432**: Sold under Montgomery Ward’s “Sport King” brand (likely made by a major OEM like Heddon or Ocean City), this reel is slightly more refined. It has a **smoother drag**, a **lighter aluminum body**, and an **elegant nickel-plated finish**. It’s better suited for medium-weight freshwater fishing.
**Verdict**: If you prioritize brute strength, go for the Ocean City #35. For a smoother, lighter reel, the Wards Sport King is the better choice.
### **2. Performance & Functionality**
– **Drag System**: Both reels use a **click-and-pawl mechanism**, but the Wards Sport King tends to offer a **more consistent resistance**, making it slightly better for fighting larger trout or bass. The Ocean City #35’s drag is louder and more aggressive—perfect for quick-striking fish like bluefish or striped bass.
– **Line Capacity**: The Ocean City #35 holds **more backing** (ideal for saltwater or big rivers), while the Wards Sport King’s smaller arbor is better for **delicate presentations** on small streams.
**Verdict**: Match the reel to your target species—Ocean City for power, Wards for finesse.
### **3. Collectibility & Value**
– **Ocean City #35**: Highly collectible due to its association with Penn and saltwater heritage. Prices range from **$50–$150** depending on condition.
– **Wards Sport King 60-6432**: Less common but prized for its aesthetics. Expect to pay **$80–$200** for a well-maintained model.
**Verdict**: Both are solid investments, but the Wards reel may appreciate faster due to its rarity.
### **4. Which One Should You Choose?**
– **Pick the Ocean City #35 if**: You fish in harsh conditions, need a workhorse reel, or love vintage saltwater gear.
– **Pick the Wards Sport King if**: You prefer a smoother retrieve, target smaller species, or value aesthetics.
### **Final Thoughts**
Whether you choose the **Ocean City #35** or the **Wards Sport King 60-6432**, both reels are exceptional pieces of fishing history. Test them side by side if possible, and let your fishing style guide your decision. Tight lines!
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**P.S.** If you’re looking for a modern alternative, check out **KyleBooker’s X-Series Fly Reels**—inspired by these classics but with updated materials! 🎣