Driver Daruma | Dr700

In the competitive world of saltwater fishing reels, the Japanese brand Driver has carved out a reputation for producing high-performance, durable reels that punch above their weight class. The Daruma DR700 is a flagship model in their lineup, designed specifically for anglers who need immense stopping power, high line capacity, and rugged reliability. Positioned as a heavy-duty spinning reel, the DR700 is built to tame pelagic monsters like GT, tuna, dogtooth snapper, and large amberjack. Design and Build Quality The first thing you notice about the Daruma DR700 is its robust, no-nonsense construction. It features a solid machined aluminum housing and a cold-forged aluminum spool , making it both torsionally rigid and resistant to corrosion. Driver has applied their proprietary "Rigid Support System" (RSS), which reinforces the body and rotor to eliminate flex under extreme drag pressure.

The reel is finished in a stealthy dark gunmetal with subtle gold accents—an aesthetic that screams high-end Japanese engineering. Despite its heavy-duty designation, the DR700 is surprisingly balanced and not overly bulky for its size. At the heart of the DR700 is a large-modulus main gear cut from durable brass, paired with a hardened stainless steel pinion. This combination ensures smooth power transmission and long-term durability under sustained heavy loads. driver daruma dr700