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Sealed Ball Bearings
Both sides of the bearing are fully sealed with a polymer cover between inner and outer races. These seals protect the ball bearings by keeping lubrication in and by keeping dirt, debris and moisture out. Sealed bearings are normally placed in key locations most likely to be subject to exposure from the elements. Ball bearings can be manufactured from a number of materials but the most common are carbon steel and stainless steel. Unless the description of a bearing calls out stainless steel, it is probably made of carbon steel.
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Double Shielded Ball Bearings
Both sides of the bearing are covered with a metal shield between the inner and outer races. This shield helps protect the bearing by preventing dirt and grit from entering the bearing area.
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Open Ball Bearings
Open bearings are easy to identify because the small metal balls are visible from either side of the bearing. These bearings are normally located deep within the reel in areas where exposure to salt, moisture or the elements is unlikely. If the bearing description does not specify 'sealed' or 'shielded', they are most likely 'open'.
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Clutch Bearing
Also known as a 'one-way clutch' or 'instant anti-reverse', the clutch bearing consists of a number of needle bearings which turn in one direction only. With traditional dog and ratchet style anti-reverse systems the angler experiences some back play in the rotor or handle. The amount of back play depends on the number of teeth on the ratchet—the more teeth the less back play. With a clutch bearing there is no back play which delivers faster, more solid hook sets.
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