Orvis CFO 3 Click And Pawl Fly Fishing Reel With Case Made In England Used
koba yashi The Timeless Elegance of the Orvis CFO 3 Click and Pawl Fly Fishing Reel (Made in England, Used)
For fly fishing enthusiasts, few reels evoke the same sense of nostalgia, craftsmanship, and performance as the Orvis CFO 3 Click and Pawl Fly Fishing Reel. Made in England and often sought after in the used market, this reel represents a golden era of fly fishing gear—where simplicity, durability, and elegance came together in perfect harmony.
Whether you’re a traditionalist who appreciates classic tackle or a modern angler looking for a lightweight, reliable reel, the Orvis CFO 3 remains a coveted piece of fishing history. In this guide, we’ll explore its different variations, how to choose the best one, our top recommendations, and key buying considerations.
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Understanding the Orvis CFO 3 Click and Pawl Reel
The Orvis CFO (C.F. Orvis) series has been a staple in fly fishing since the 1970s. The CFO 3 Click and Pawl reel, in particular, is known for its:
– Classic British engineering (Made in England by Hardy Bros. in earlier models)
– Lightweight yet durable aluminum construction
– Smooth, reliable click-and-pawl drag system
– Timeless aesthetic with a distinctive anodized finish
Key Variations & Types
1. Early CFO III (Hardy-made, pre-1980s) – Highly collectible, with a deeper spool and superior craftsmanship.
2. Mid-era CFO 3 (1980s-1990s) – Still made in England, with slight design tweaks.
3. Later CFO III (2000s, some overseas production) – Some models shifted manufacturing, affecting collector appeal.
When buying used, the Made in England versions are the most desirable due to their superior build quality.
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How to Choose the Best Orvis CFO 3 Click and Pawl Reel
1. Check the Origin – “Made in England” models (especially Hardy-made) are the most valuable.
2. Condition Matters – Look for minimal wear, smooth operation, and intact anodizing.
3. Spool Compatibility – Some later CFOs may have interchangeable spools, but older models are fixed.
4. Intended Use – The CFO 3 is best for 3-5 weight rods, ideal for small to medium trout streams.
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Top 5 Orvis CFO 3 Click and Pawl Reel Recommendations (Used Market)
1. Orvis CFO III (Hardy-Made, 1970s)
✅ Highlights: The original, handcrafted in England by Hardy.
✅ Pros:
– Unmatched craftsmanship
– Smooth, reliable click drag
– Highly collectible
❌ Cons:
– Harder to find in good condition
– No interchangeable spools
🎯 Best for: Collectors & traditionalists.
2. Orvis CFO III (1980s, English-Made)
✅ Highlights: Slightly updated but still high-quality.
✅ Pros:
– More available than 1970s models
– Still excellent build quality
❌ Cons:
– Some wear expected in used models
🎯 Best for: Anglers who want classic performance without extreme rarity.
3. Orvis CFO III (1990s, English-Made, Black Finish)
✅ Highlights: Sleek black anodized version.
✅ Pros:
– Stylish, durable finish
– Smooth operation
❌ Cons:
– Later models may have minor quality differences
🎯 Best for: Those who prefer a darker aesthetic.
4. Orvis CFO III (2000s, Some Overseas Production)
✅ Highlights: More affordable used option.
✅ Pros:
– Still a good performer
– Easier to find
❌ Cons:
– Not as collectible as English-made versions
🎯 Best for: Budget-conscious anglers.
5. Orvis CFO III (Special Editions, Engraved)
✅ Highlights: Rare engraved or limited editions.
✅ Pros:
– Unique collector’s item
– High resale value
❌ Cons:
– Very expensive
🎯 Best for: Serious collectors.
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Buying Tips for a Used Orvis CFO 3 Reel
✔ Verify authenticity – Check engravings & serial numbers.
✔ Inspect for corrosion – Especially around the spindle.
✔ Test the drag – Should be smooth with a crisp click.
✔ Look for original case – Adds value.
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FAQs About the Orvis CFO 3 Click and Pawl Reel
Q: Why are Hardy-made CFO reels more valuable?
A: Hardy’s craftsmanship in the 1970s-80s was unmatched, making these reels highly sought after.
Q: Is the CFO 3 suitable for saltwater?
A: No, it’s designed for freshwater trout fishing.
Q: Can I still get spare parts?
A: Some parts are available, but older models may require custom repairs.
Q: What line weight is best for the CFO 3?
A: It pairs well with 3-5 weight lines.
Q: How much should I pay for a used CFO 3?
A: Prices range from $200-$600+, depending on condition and rarity.
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Final Thoughts & Where to Buy
The Orvis CFO 3 Click and Pawl Reel is a piece of fly fishing history—blending elegance, simplicity, and performance. Whether you’re a collector or an angler who appreciates classic gear, a Made in England model is a worthy investment.
Ready to own a piece of fishing heritage? Check trusted platforms like:
– eBay (for rare finds)
– Fly fishing forums (for collector-grade reels)
– Specialty vintage tackle shops
Happy fishing—and tight lines! 🎣