Battenkill MA III- Anybody use one?

I've heard pretty good reviews, even from my LFS, but they do not sell them. I'm looking at based on price and overall chance that I might bag a large trout or two along the way, and this reel may do the trick. Also I like that I *could* use it for saltwater, if I ever get around to it.

I'm currently using a St. Croix reel/rod combo, 9' #5 4-piece. I love the rod- casts great, longer length good for honing me casting skills, even in small creeks, and I plan to continue to use this rod for some time. The reel is shiite, however, and after 4 years I'm ready for an upgrade.

I'm obviously not looking for uber high-end designer stuff- I just want something solid that is made well and that I can depend on. This seems to fit the bill at approx $119. Blue Quill in Evergreen will even throw in Sage DT fly line for free- seems like a good deal. They are on sale direct from Orvis for $99, and they'll throw in the backing.

The comparable reel in my LFS is $175 (Ross CLA 1.5). Is the BA that good of a deal or should I spend the extra dough on the Ross?

Any thoughts or input would be greatly appreciated. BTW, I did a search, and also read 72Twenty's recent thread ISO a large used arbor. I'm looking for feedback on the MA III, specifically. Any feedback on the Ross also needed.

Thanks!

~Jacquelyne

I use one for a 6wt and have put it on a 8wt. I have other Orvis reels, but this one is by far the simplest I've used and seems pretty reliable.

I've used it in the salt for school sized bass and it's totally fine.

And they're not bad looking either...
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l2...g?t=1215561004

got two Bkill large arbors and two mids including a III on my 9wt. They work and are cheapish. Call the orvis manchester outlet and ask for one, I think they had some for 89 buck a while back in silver.

Here's an England Battenkill in Westminster http://denver.craigslist.org/spo/744656432.html

I picked up one for the wife to be last year. Although she's using it on spring steelhead, it's held up very well and seems to be a very good value. I believe I got it new off e-bay with a spare spool for $115 shipped.