PM-H series

The PM‑H series are export model long cast reels that are essentially rebranded versions of the Longbeam ST‑H series, an entry‑level range sold only in Japan. Visually, the PM-H reels are almost identical to the ST-H models, sharing the same metallic grey finish with red side decals. A notable difference is the bail kicker, which features a roller on the PM-H series. They were marketed primarily for sea fishing, although some catalogues also recommended them for carp fishing. Even today, these reels can still be seen on the banks, valued as much for their looks as their performance.

History

In 1989 and 1990, Daiwa released the Longbeam ST-H series, a series of entry-level long cast reels. These were JDM models, sold exclusively in Japan.

In 1990, Daiwa rebranded the Longbeam ST-H series as the PM-H series for export. Looking back, this marked a milestone, as it was Daiwa’s first long cast series for heavy lines in Europe, featuring skirtless spools and worm gear oscillation. It marked the start of a lineage that would include the best-loved cult classic reels.

In France, the PM-H series was listed alongside the premium Longbeam SS series in the catalogue. There, it was promoted for sea, boat and shore fishing, with the PM-2600H specified for carp fishing. Daiwa UK and some distributors positioned the PM-H series differently. In the UK, the reels were marketed as larger models alongside the smaller PM1300H, PM1600H and PM2000H spinning reels, which were rebranded Silverline ST-H series. Just like in France, the PM-2600H was also listed for carp fishing, while the larger models targeted shore casting. In the Netherlands, the new PM-H models were added to the Albatros (distributor) catalogue alongside the existing PM1000H, PM1300H and PM2000H models, where they were specifically promoted for sea fishing.

The PM-H series is almost identical to the Longbeam ST-H series. The most noticeable difference from the ST-H series is the more premium bail kicker, which features a roller. Otherwise, the differences are very minor. The carbon type appears to differ, as the colours visible inside the body vary. The anti-reverse ratchets and worm shaft retainers are slightly different in shape and also have different part numbers. However, these subtle differences may simply reflect component updates made by Daiwa over different production years, which seems most likely.

The series was discontinued after 1994, and succeeded by the Emblem S-H series.

Releases

The PM-H series was released exclusively for export, at least in Europe and North America, and possibly in other markets as well. Like the Longbeam models, it was offered in four sizes. The smallest models, the PM-2600H and PM-4000H, share the same body size and use a 30 mm stroke. The larger PM-7000H and PM-9000H also share a common body size, using a 35 mm stroke instead. The smaller models have a high-speed 5.1:1 gear ratio, while the larger models have a slightly different high-speed ratio of 4.6:1. They came in boxes very similar to the full-carton boxes used for the Longbeam ST-H series. The image on the box actually shows a Longbeam ST-H model, as the bail kicker has no roller.

In the UK, the PM-2600H and PM-4000H were released in 1990, followed by the PM-7000H and PM-9000H in 1991. All four were last listed in the 1993 catalogue. In France, all four sizes were introduced in 1991 and discontinued after 1994. German release information is currently unknown. In the Netherlands, the PM-4000H first appeared in Albatros’s 1990 catalogue, with the PM-9000H following a year later. Both were last listed in 1993. Any additional information on the German or other markets would be greatly appreciated.

Model comparison

Compared to other models in this family, the PM-H series is visually very similar to the Longbeam ST-H series, with its grey metallic finish and red side decals. A notible difference is a roller on the bail kicker, unlike the ST-H series. The handle with hard plastic knob is identical to that of the Longbeam ST-H models and, on the smaller sizes only, the Procaster ST-30H.

Technically, the PM-H series sits at the lower end of the Longbeam series. These reels feature only one ball bearing, placed on the pinion gear. In terms of body and rotor material, as well as line roller and gear materials, they are identical to the other models in the Longbeam series, with the exception of the SS series, which clearly stands apart. The PM-H high-speed gear ratios are identical to the ST-H and GS-H models. The graphite spools lack a polished metal spool lip, just like the ST-H series.

Collectabillity

The PM-H series can still be found on the banks today, although they are not among the most sought-after reels. However, as they were actually sold in Europe during the 1990s, they remain fairly popular and are more sought-after than the almost identical (JDM) Longbeam ST-H series. They are relatively scarce nowadays; for example, in the Netherlands, these reels rarely appear on the second-hand market.

Specifications

All models in this group are very similar in terms of technical design. Click the button ‘Longbeam series’ for general technical information, or further info on certain subjects below.