Mitchell Reel Collectors International

Mitchell Collectors International

Glossary for the Mitchell Collector

- A -

"A" Suffix on spinning reels - The letter "A" after the model number identified the reel to be fitted with a silent anti-reverse. This was initiated in 1978/1979. (Note: There are some models where this rule is not applicable.) Additionally, the "A" suffix may represent the same model being reissued.
"A" Suffix on conventional surfcasting reels of the 600-series - Indicates this reel had side-plates with double chromed rings on both sides and a bronze chromed spool.
Africa/Pro Africa - In 1999 Mitchell of France produced a limited production run of a 498X Pro P.U.M. named the Pro Africa. The significance of this reel was that its spool was designed specifically for braided line. There are many places in the world where braided line is very popular and very much in demand. This is one of four 498 Pro X models produced in the late 1990s. They are outstanding specimens of heavy-duty saltwater reels.
Albatros - Importer and distributor of Mitchell articles for the Netherlands. Some reels sold by this distributor were also wearing this name either on a decal or by engraving. Some reels wore his logo -a flying albatross- or were engraved with the same name.
"ALC" - The definition of these initials is Auto Lightning Cast. Only found on the last series of the 440 auto-bail models. Usually associated with Match grade versions. No left-handed version known of.
Alphabetical Serial Numbers - In 1971 until 1989, alphabetically ordered A through T, serial numbers for each respective model year had a letter prefix to indicate the year and month manufactured. (Look also at the section "Dating Mitchell Reels").
"Anniversary" Models - We know of three anniversary models released to the general public to commemorate special occasions. The 300 Pro Anniversary from 1989 commemorated the 45th Anniversary of the Mitchell 300. The -silver coloured and foreign made- Mitchell 300 Century from 1996 commemorated the 50th Anniversary of the Mitchell 300. The -also silver coloured, but French made- Mitchell 498X Pro P.U.M. Anniversary from 1998 celebrated the 30th Anniversary of the 498 surf reel.
"AP" Suffix on conventional surfcasting reels of the 600-series - indicates this reel had side-plates with double chromed rings on each side of it and a black fibre spool. "P" stands for Plastic, name used for almost all synthetic materials.
Arca - Importer and distributor of Mitchell products for Belgium and the Grand Duchy of Luxemburg. Some reels sold by this distributor displayed this name either on a decal or by engraving. Some reels wore this logo -a stylised fish- or were engraved with the same name.
Auto-bail - name given in Great Britain to the Mitchell 330 "Otomatic" model.
"Automatic" - On the 710 and 720 fly reels to indicate an automatic retrieve of the line.