Allcock Double Ventilated Aerial 7950-T7 4”
Always hard to find & highly desirable. A superb example. SOLD
£750.00
By increasing the number of ventilation holes from eight on the front flange only to twelve on both flanges (with 12 smaller holes to boot), Allcocks certainly reduced the weight of the Aerial’s spool, but inevitably, made it more vulnerable to mishap. This example, I’m happy to report, is completely sound and in outstandingly good mechanical condition. With its patina from honest use and age, it’s one of the most attractive of all Aerials.
Allcocks made this model from 1923 to 1934. During its eleven year production run, I suspect that it wasn’t made in large numbers. Until this one came along, I hadn’t handled a 4″ version for many years.
Condition report.
The spool is true and tight, with no chips or dents. The aluminium flanges retain traces of original leaded finish and much attractive patina. The solid nickel sliver line pins are straight and tight. The nickel silver spokes are clean and straight. The tension adjuster and spool release work perfectly.
The spool’s width between flanges is 1¹⁄₁₆”
The reel’s back, bearing the usual Allcock Aerial roundel stamp and registered number stamp, has the attractive patina of age. The spindle and corresponding spool hub have no wear and the spool spins freely and evenly.
The end float adjustment grub screw is tidy and fully operational. The check wheel retains its original blued finish.
The crisp V-spring check, operated via the brass button on the reel’s back, is set up with a pronounced right hand wind bias.
The Xylonite handles have only moderate crazing, they are straight and turn freely.
The brass foot is straight, full length and un-filed.
Loaded with a 50 meter spool of 4 lbs BS Maxima Ultra Green, this might just be the best trotting reel you’ll ever use and if you know how, it’ll be a Wallis caster’s dream.
Billy Lane, whose family firm was a leading Allcock stockist, used this model and size when he won the world match championship on the Moselle in Luxembourg in 1963. He was trotting with maggots under a porcupine quill float. Those were the days!
*From the collection of the late Andrew Pattison.