Just picked up an old one of these in mint condition and was interested if any one is using them.
I have nice new modern reels but it would be a waste not to get into action.
I know little about it so a little insight would be appreciated.
I like to lite line it even though its a weighty reel, I'm sure someone will point me in right direction

cheers

BH

My Mother in law still uses one from around 40 years ago.  Matched with a fibreglass broomstick it's a lethal weapon on snaps.  A beautiful simple reel which can be rebuilt using spares from an FJ holden they're as solid as they come.  I've tried converting here to the dark side with rods that actually bend and mono manufactured this century but she's attached to her museum piece. 
    She's caught more fish on it than I've had hot dinners (made by her daughter) and it just won't die.  To hear it singing when hauling in a ray is like listening to a gramaphone recording.  A bygone era in terms of technology but one that should be appreciated.
    Cheers
         DA

BH I have 4 or 5 of them in the garage, they are simple and basic but still work ok. I wouldn't go too light on them as they (older models at least) tend to have big tolerances between the spool and side frame and like to swallow the line. Older ones had leather drag washers and you need to give the line a tweak every now and again to stop the drag from sticking.

The 185 is a newer reel ( maybe out for 5 years) Perhaps you mean a Penn 85.  The 185 has a higher gear ratio & not as long lasting as the origs.  cheers Jeff