I know the Cardinal 4's have a cult following but once you use one of the newer reels you'll never go back to the archaic Cardinal 4
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
This. in spades.
I was a cardinal 4 fan, Big Time.
Picked up a cheaper ( $69) Shimano as a spare for a trip years ago...it made the Cardinal four feel like a coffee grinder!
Ive never looked back since then. I did try a new Cardinal and what was said about longevity was certainly true...they don't hold up.
Had great luck with Shimanos....