Maktub Power Handles from Japan

A Japanese Manufacturer That Thinks Differently

Maktub Gear Co. is a relatively young custom parts brand from Japan, specializing in a very specific mission: building tuning parts that you not only see while fishing but feel. The brand puts it this way: "Our value lies not in aesthetic changes, but in the actual tactile feel and performance during use." In other words: at Maktub, it’s not about flashy colors or showmanship, but about what you feel in your hand when cranking, setting the hook, and fighting the fish.

The brand motto in one sentence: "より強く、よりシルキーに", translated as "stronger and at the same time silkier." It sounds like a contradiction at first, but it makes sense when you hold the parts: a more stable reel handle even under full fight load, no flex, no play, no clicking in the joint. And at the same time, no harsh transitions in the rotation, but a smooth, soft operation.

The Material: Extra Super Duralumin

All Power Handles are CNC-machined from Extra Super Duralumin, an aluminum alloy originally developed for aircraft construction. What sets it apart from regular aluminum? Three points:

• Hardness: significantly higher than standard aluminum, so no deformation under fight load
• Tensile strength: on par with some steel alloys, but only one-third the weight
• Warp resistance: no play in the material even after years of intensive use

Each handle is machined from a solid block, not cast or stamped. This makes production more expensive than many other power handles on the market, but it’s the reason why Maktub reels perform in a different league during fights with big pike or catfish compared to a standard Gomexus handle.

The Maktub Power Handle

The brand’s centerpiece. Available in two lengths:

Maktub Power Handle 100mm with mounted 25mm EVA knobs. The more versatile option, fits most all-round applications with larger baitcasters. 100mm gives you more leverage than the original handle of your Shimano or Daiwa without making the reel feel bulky.

Maktub Power Handle 120mm with mounted 26mm EVA knobs. The true big-game version. Whether you’re fishing carp under the surface in a pellet pond, moving heavy bait for catfish at a hotspot, or targeting big pike waters with glide baits and swimbaits, the 120mm handle gives you maximum leverage. Maktub describes the use case as "for all monster fish," and that’s no exaggeration.

Both versions come pre-assembled with handle and knobs. Shaft bore adapters are included or available as options depending on the reel manufacturer. Fits most Shimano and Daiwa baitcasters in the 200 to 400 size range (Curado 300, Tranx, Calcutta Conquest 300/400, Tatula TW HD, Saltiga BJ, and comparable models).

The Maktub EVA Knobs

If you have the Power Handle and just want to replace the knobs, or want to upgrade another handle with Maktub knobs, the knobs are also available separately. Made from high-density EVA foam produced in Japan, in two sizes:

• Maktub EVA Knob 25mm: compact, for easier handling and finer bait control
• Maktub EVA Knob 26mm: slightly larger, more grip during the fight, especially with wet hands

What sets Maktub knobs apart from standard EVA knobs is the material density. Cheaper knobs are made with higher air content, feel soft at first, but after hours of fishing they dent or tear at stress points. Maktub manufactures with significantly higher density, making the knobs a bit firmer to the touch but also shape-stable even after years of intensive use.

The EVA Grip Covers as Spare Parts

EVA is very durable, but eventually the knob surface of a favorite handle will wear out. Instead of replacing the entire handle or knob, Maktub offers EVA grip covers separately, currently in gray. You pull off the old cover, slide on the new one, done. The density and fit are identical to the original knobs, so no difference in handling, just a fresh look.

Who Is Maktub Worth It For?

Honestly: not for everyone. Maktub is premium-priced and makes sense if you:

• fish big bait, catfish, or big pike and want noticeably more stability during the fight
• have already tried several power handles and are no longer satisfied with standard aluminum solutions
• value Made-in-Japan and are willing to pay more for CNC manufacturing
• own an expensive premium reel (Stella, Antares DC MD, Steez Limited, Saltiga) and want to upgrade it with a handle that performs at the same level

If you want to pimp a 150-euro baitcaster with a tuning handle, Gomexus is the better choice. But if you’re in the upper tuning segment and looking for a handle that won’t downgrade a 600-euro reel, then Maktub is exactly that.

Before Buying: Check Compatibility

Maktub Power Handles have standard shaft bores for Shimano (7x4mm on baitcasters) and Daiwa (8x5mm on baitcasters and spinning reels). For most 200 to 400 baitcasters, this fits directly. If you’re unsure whether your reel model is compatible, use the Reel Finder or contact us briefly via the contact page. We usually respond the same day.