Bill Ballan Raised Pillar Midge Reel 2 1/2" 8’5” The downlocking screwlock is mortised

The downlocking screwlock is mortised and anodized to a matte black

Even without a restoration

ferrules oxidized

The rod has a medium-fast dry-fly action that balances very nicely in the hand

The reel has a slightly filed original brass foot and a replacement handle at some point in its long life

Bill Ballan Raised Pillar Midge Reel 2 1/2" 8’5” The downlocking screwlock is mortisedA Bill Ballan Midge Fly Reel, 2 1 2" diameter. Fairly neutral bias though with perhaps a slight favor to RHW. Near mint condition. The reel has some very minor cosmetic rubbing in a few places, though it may be from handling rather than fishing. It is very clean overall. Raised pillar design with an integrated s handle. Black sideplates with a silver aluminum frame. 7 8" spool width. Designed for 3 weight or smaller rods. It comes in the original