I wrote the original question on Penn bearings. After research, I found that the original Battle had a line roller bearing This was replaced with a plastic bushing on the battle 2. Penn changed bearings to sealed stainless bearings on battle 2. I own both reels and both work awsome as I take care of my equipment, cleaning and rebuild if need be. I'm not talking cheap China reels, loaded with 10+ bearings, Penn is a better rated reel. Both the original, battle 2 and 3 are great and will catch you a lot of fish if you take care of reel.