Simxkai Kite String Reel, String Spool, Line Winder, Come with Lock

This has some weight to it, it doesn't feel cheap at all. Keep an eye on it though, because if you're not careful, it can get in a nasty tangle. That happened the first time I used it. I was able to pick the tangle out but it took long enough to challenge my patience, which is not in short supply. However, every time since, knowing to watch what I'm doing, it hasn't happened again. Some users have said it doesn't fit their hands; it fits mine just fine, but my hands are small, so be aware that the size might be an issue. It works just like it says it does and on the whole, I'm satisfied with it.

We decided to fly kites while camping on the bluffs over Crystal Cove, California. My kids are 40 years old, and it's been awhile. I bought two kites - one a 'dragon' the other some 'squid' lookin' thing. I bought two different spool/winder things - sent on back because it had plastic parts, then bought this one because it was a little more expensive. It is a better mousetrap - wider, sturdier, the handle, while it doesn't fold like the other two is just... bigger, better. At first, if you're not careful, they spin so easily that you're likely to let the string come off the side and wind up with a bird nest. The second time it was so bad I just cut away a couple yards of string and re-tied the hook. There was an onshore breeze all day and the kites just kind of flew like party balloons - to the delight of everyone even at other camp sites. Then, about 3pm, the wind started to change directions and the kites faltered - the larger one looked like it was going to plumet to the ground - and I had quite a bit of string out by that time. I grabbed the reel and wound it in so easily and quickly it stopped acting like it was going to fall out of the sky, and I wheeled it right up the reel. They both worked well - but of the two this was the better one. Totally recommend if you're going to go fly a kite.

Works fine. Just heavy and tangles easy if you haven't practiced using one before. Definitely not recommended for children. Thing is huge also and I have big hands.

We replaced our flimsy reel because of tangled lines and, this kite string reel is an absolute upgrade. The reel is substantial enough to grip comfortably without being cumbersome, allowing for excellent control. The star of the show is the rotating spool mechanism. Paying out 984 feet of line is smooth and effortless, and reeling it back in is just as easy, minimizing hand fatigue. It turns freely, ensuring your line doesn't snag or bind when your kite catches a thermal. With 984 feet of string, you can get your kite up high and explore maximum altitude. This reel is built tough and handles the tension of high winds easily. It's the perfect investment for anyone who takes their kite flying seriously.

I LOVE this reel. I really do. The one big caveat is you have to redo the knot from string to fish hook connection. It comes with a flimsy half-done knot. If you put a heavy kite/wind on it, it will just unwind. For piece of mind re-knot it (my favorite/easiest is a clinch knot). If there's isn't tension on the string when unwinding/getting kite in there air, it will tangle in the most fantastical way, be warned. Best technique I've found is putting in the ground behind you, unlocked, get the kite in the air, and once there's tension you can start messing with the reel itself to keep the kite aloft. Sorry if this is too nerdy, I'm getting really into kite flying and have 6 kites and me and the kids are just loving it right now.

Great product. Works wonderfully. Only reason I did 3 Stars is to let folks know the cord is NOT tied to the reel. Probably common knowledge but be aware. I was letting a kite go pretty far up and then the cord ran out. It went somewhere over the Atlantic Ocean. Bon Voyage.

I LOVE these. I bought two, and swap them between several kites. For assembly: here is nothing to put together, you just attach it to your kite and go! It connects with a clip similar to what's used in fishing, it is easy to remove and attach. Cost wise, maybe a little bit of a splurge, but worth it considering how easy they make reeling in and out your kite. They are large enough that they are easy to handle but not too bulky. They make kite flying extra fun and easy, and come in really cute colors! The brake feature is really nice for keeping your kite set where you want it. However I wish it was easier to access/apply, I've seen others (more expensive) with a lever brake that seems like it'd be easier to apply than this one, which twists into place. Overall the item is a no trainer, easy to use, and a great purchase. Maybe consider some gloves or sleeves, or just be aware that if your kite takes off and gets away from you the plastic can cause a cut/burn, similar to a rope burn, it got me my first time, but no problems since : )

Absolute trash.