Bob,

I haven't tried ABEC spec bearings in any of my reels but I do use them in my slot cars. I would say they should be a much smoother bearing and probably longer lasting than a non spec bearing. I hadn't thought about putting them in my reels. I just might have to try that!

Typically the higher number the spec on the bearing the better quality it needs to be. This could mean that it has more balls than a standard bearing and they could be of a different hardness as well. We use them in the slot car motors as they will typically turn upward of 250,000 rpms and non ABEC bearings won't turn that fast! Besides, spending $20 on bearings VS $250 on a new motor makes it worth while

For a saltwater reel I whould think the ceramic/ss bearings would be a great idea!