The Traditional Fisherman's Forum

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I was under the impression that this was a T9,but after having a look at Bob Singletons book I now think this is a 7981 T2 which would make it a scarce reel.
Any info would be much appreciated.

Just checked my 1933 Alcock catalogue and it looks like I am right.I still need confirmation please as this reel is on eBay at the moment and I may have to remove the listing and do a bit more detective work.

Nice reel, but it's not a T2, that would have a caliper check.
Yours has a V check and a solid backplate to the drum, making it a T9.
Only my opinion, I could be wrong, and usually am...

Allcock changed to a V check on this reel in the latter ones.

Hi,
I'm afraid it's not a 7981 unless it's either 2.3/4", 5" or 5.1/2" dia - i.e. an export only model. This leaves 7950 T9 as the only model it could be.
Dok.

People keep telling me it can,t be a 7981,but according to my 1933 Allcock Anglers guide the reel was only made in 3 sizes........3 1/2 inch,4 inch and 4 1/2 inch.I have added a picture with the rest of the photo,s.

Unfortunately the Guides contain so many errors they can't realistically be used as provenance. This is a bit perverse, as I suspect the Guides, and the 'provenance' they supply are a good part of the reason Allcock tackle is so popular.

Catalogues for the trade on the other hand, are more reliable...but somewhat harder to find.

Nobby wrote: ↑Wed Mar 14, 2018 4:24 pm Unfortunately the Guides contain so many errors they can't realistically be used as provenance. This is a bit perverse, as I suspect the Guides, and the 'provenance' they supply are a good part of the reason Allcock tackle is so popular.

Catalogues for the trade on the other hand, are more reliable...but somewhat harder to find.

Hi,
Nobby makes a very good point and as luck would have it I have a 1923 Trade Catalogue. Here are some pics - make your own mind up! Although I would add that Bob Singletons book is excellent it may not be quite the bible for Aerials. Some of the data he compiled has since been superceded and like all research it soon becomes outdated. The "T" references he uses are his own invention and not Allcocks which were of the "7950" type.
For my 2 pennorth I believe that the 7950 had an open rear spool flange and the 7981 had a solid rear spool flange initially, later combined into one type i.e. 7950. Caliper check earlier and "V" check later for both types. As to rarety the 7981 is not scarce at all having seen hundreds over the years, UNLESS it is 2.3/4", 5", or 5.1/2" diameter when it is mega rare.

Regards,
Dok

What a marvellous catalogue!
Thanks for posting, much appreciated

Thanks people.