Reelcraft Air Hose Reel Reviews: Is It Worth It?

If you’re tired of wrestling with tangled air hoses in your garage or workshop, let me point you toward the Reelcraft air hose reel. I’ve spent months putting this thing through its paces, and it’s a game-changer for keeping your workspace tidy and your tools humming.

From its rugged build to its smooth retraction, it’s designed to make your life easier, whether you’re a weekend DIYer or a pro in a busy shop. Trust me, this is one purchase that’ll save you time and frustration—read on to see why.

My Experience With Reelcraft Air Hose Reel

I’ll never forget the day I decided to upgrade my workshop with the Reelcraft 7650 OLP air hose reel.

My old setup was a nightmare—50 feet of hose sprawled across the floor, kinking every time I turned around, and tripping me up when I was in the middle of a project.

I’d had enough. After some research, I settled on Reelcraft, a brand I’d heard mechanics and shop owners rave about.

I mounted it in my 1,200-square-foot garage, connecting it to a 60-gallon air compressor feeding a PEX line, and let me tell you, it’s been a revelation.

Right out of the box, the Reelcraft felt like it meant business. The steel construction was hefty, weighing about 43 pounds, but that weight screamed durability.

I bolted it to the ceiling about 10 feet up, which took some effort, but once it was up, the four-way rollers made pulling the hose a breeze. I could guide it to any corner of my garage without a hitch. Whether I was inflating tires, running a pneumatic nailer, or blasting dust off my workbench, the 50-foot, 3/8-inch hose delivered consistent air pressure up to 300 PSI.

The spring-driven retraction was smooth but firm, snapping the hose back with a satisfying tug. I’ll admit, the first few times I used it, I struggled with the locking mechanism—it only engages at specific lengths, which threw me off. After a week, though, I got the hang of it.

What surprised me most was how much cleaner my workspace became. No more coiling hoses by hand or stepping over a snake pit of rubber. The Reelcraft’s powder-coated finish held up against the occasional splash of oil or grime, and the sealed swivel kept leaks at bay.

I’ve used it daily for six months, from small jobs like tightening bolts to bigger ones like sanding down a car hood, and it’s never let me down. Sure, it’s not perfect—more on that later—but it’s made my workflow so much smoother. If you’re serious about keeping your shop functional and organized, this reel is worth every penny.

Pros Of Reelcraft Air Hose Reel

Durable steel construction: The Reelcraft’s high-grade steel base and guide arm are built like a tank. I’ve yanked on the hose countless times, and there’s no hint of bending or wear. The rib-reinforced design and machine-made welds add to its toughness, making it ideal for rough-and-tumble environments like automotive shops or busy garages.
Smooth retraction system: The spring-driven mechanism is a dream when it works. Give the hose a gentle tug, and it retracts cleanly without tangling. I love how it saves me time—no more winding up a hose by hand after a long day.
Corrosion-resistant finish: The powder-coated steel components shrug off rust, even in my humid garage. I’ve spilled water and oil nearby, and the finish still looks pristine, which is a big win for long-term use.

Versatile mounting options: Whether you want it on the wall, ceiling, or even a mobile rig, the Reelcraft adapts. I mounted mine overhead, but the adjustable guide arm lets you tweak the angle to suit your setup. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference.
High-pressure capacity: Rated for 300 PSI, this reel handles everything from light-duty blowguns to heavy pneumatic tools. I’ve run my impact wrench and air sander without a drop in performance, which keeps my projects moving.
Sealed swivel design: Leaks are the bane of any air system, but the Reelcraft’s sealed swivel keeps air where it belongs. I’ve had zero issues with pressure loss, even after months of daily use.

The durability and ease of use make this reel a standout. It’s not just about keeping your hose tidy—it’s about making your work faster and less frustrating. For anyone who values a reliable tool, these features are hard to beat.

Cons Of Reelcraft Air Hose Reel

Tricky locking mechanism: The ratchet system only locks at predetermined lengths, which can be annoying. I’ve had moments where I needed the hose to stay put at an odd length, but it wouldn’t lock until I extended or retracted it further. It’s a minor hassle, but it disrupts the flow when you’re in the zone.
Heavy weight: At 43 pounds, this reel isn’t light. Mounting it on the ceiling required a buddy and some serious effort. If you’re not handy or don’t have a solid mounting surface, installation can be a pain.

Pricey compared to budget brands: Reelcraft isn’t cheap. I paid a premium for the 7650 OLP, and while it’s worth it for heavy users, casual DIYers might balk at the cost when brands like Harbor Freight offer reels for half the price.
Short lead-in hose: The included lead-in hose is only about 3 feet long, which felt stingy. If your compressor is far from the mounting spot, you’ll need to buy extra piping, which adds to the setup cost.
Spring wear over time: While I haven’t had issues yet, I’ve heard from other users that the spring can weaken after years of heavy use. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s something to keep in mind for long-term maintenance.

These drawbacks don’t overshadow the reel’s strengths, but they’re worth considering, especially if you’re on a budget or need a super-flexible setup. Weigh your needs carefully before pulling the trigger.

Maintenance Tips For Reelcraft Air Hose Reel

Regularly inspect the hose: Check your hose for cracks, kinks, or abrasions every month or so. I run my hands along the entire 50 feet to feel for weak spots. If you spot damage, replace the hose immediately to avoid pressure loss or leaks. A quick visual scan can save you from bigger headaches later.
Clean the reel and hose: Dust, grease, and grime can build up, especially in a busy shop. I wipe down the reel with a damp cloth every couple of weeks to keep the powder coating intact. For the hose, a mild soap solution works wonders to remove oil or dirt without degrading the rubber.

Lubricate moving parts: The Reelcraft’s swivel and spring mechanism are factory-lubricated, but I add a drop of pneumatic tool oil to the swivel every six months to keep it smooth. Be sparing—too much oil can attract dust and gum up the works.
Check mounting bolts: Vibrations from daily use can loosen bolts over time. I grab a wrench every few months and give the mounting bolts a quick tighten. It only takes a minute and ensures the reel stays secure, especially if it’s ceiling-mounted like mine.
Monitor spring tension: If the retraction feels sluggish, the spring might need adjustment. I’ll cover how to tweak this in the FAQ, but for now, just know that checking the spring’s responsiveness every few months can prevent premature wear.

Store properly in extreme conditions: If you’re in a cold climate, avoid letting the hose freeze with water inside—it can damage the rubber. I drain my hose completely during winter to keep it in top shape. Similarly, keep the reel out of direct sunlight to protect the powder coating.

These steps are simple but crucial for keeping your Reelcraft running smoothly. A little care goes a long way, and I’ve found that spending 10 minutes a month on maintenance keeps this reel performing like new.

Comparison With Other Brands

Coxreels: Coxreels is a direct competitor to Reelcraft, and I’ve used their P-LP series in a friend’s shop. Like Reelcraft, Coxreels are made in the USA and built tough, with heavy-duty steel and a focus on industrial use. Their SH series is great for high-vibration environments, like mobile setups, thanks to a dual pedestal base that adds stability. However, I found Coxreels’ locking mechanism trickier—you have to listen for a faint click to know when it locks, which is tough in a noisy shop. Reelcraft’s ratchet, while not perfect, feels more intuitive. Coxreels also tend to be pricier, which might sting if you’re already stretching your budget for a Reelcraft.

Flexzilla: Flexzilla reels are popular for their bright green, ultra-flexible hoses that stay pliable in cold weather. I tested a Flexzilla reel at a local auto shop, and the hose was a dream to maneuver, especially in tight spaces. However, the reels often use lighter materials, like aluminum fittings, which feel less durable than Reelcraft’s brass or steel. Flexzilla’s retraction can also be sluggish, and I noticed the hose piling up unevenly during rewind. For casual users, Flexzilla’s lower price is tempting, but for heavy-duty tasks, Reelcraft’s robust build outshines it.
Goodyear: Goodyear’s retractable reels, like the L815153G, are solid contenders with durable polypropylene housing and a 300 PSI rating. I borrowed one for a weekend project, and it held up well, but the installation was a hassle due to vague instructions. The hose didn’t retract as smoothly as Reelcraft’s, often bunching up on one side. Goodyear’s reels are more affordable, but the plastic-heavy construction doesn’t inspire the same confidence as Reelcraft’s steel. If you’re on a budget, Goodyear’s a decent pick, but Reelcraft feels like a longer-term investment.
DeWalt: DeWalt’s DXCM024-0343 reel caught my eye for its sleek design and brand reputation. I tried one at a hardware store demo, and while it worked fine, the plastic hose guide broke after light use, which was a red flag. Users online echo this, citing flimsy components despite the reel’s premium price. Reelcraft’s all-steel build and stronger fittings make it a better choice for daily use. DeWalt’s great for power tools, but their reels don’t match Reelcraft’s reliability in demanding environments.

Harbor Freight: Harbor Freight’s reels, like the Diablo or Klutch models, are budget-friendly and surprisingly decent for light use. I’ve got a Klutch reel in my shed for occasional tasks, and it’s held up for two years without major issues. But the hoses feel cheap, and the fittings leaked until I added an O-ring. Compared to Reelcraft, Harbor Freight reels lack the polish and durability for professional settings. If you’re a hobbyist with minimal needs, they’re fine, but Reelcraft’s quality is in a different league.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Where are Reelcraft hose reels made?

Reelcraft hose reels are proudly made in the USA, specifically in Columbia City, Indiana. The company’s been crafting them there for over 50 years, emphasizing quality and durability. I’ve seen their manufacturing ethos reflected in the solid build of my 7650 OLP—it’s designed to last, with no corners cut. Buying American-made gives me confidence in the craftsmanship, and it supports local jobs, which is a nice bonus.

How to adjust tension on Reelcraft hose reel?

Adjusting the tension on a Reelcraft hose reel is straightforward but requires care. First, depressurize the system and disconnect the hose from the compressor. Pull the hose out fully, then locate the spring canister on the reel’s side. You’ll need a wrench to loosen the bolts holding the canister. Rotate the canister clockwise to increase tension or counterclockwise to reduce it—usually one or two turns does the trick. Tighten the bolts, reconnect the hose, and test the retraction. I did this once when my reel felt sluggish, and it took about 10 minutes to get it perfect. Always check the manual for your specific model to avoid over-tightening.

Is the Gardena hose reel any good?

Gardena hose reels are designed for garden use, not air hoses, so they’re not a direct comparison to Reelcraft. I’ve used a Gardena wall-mounted reel for watering my lawn, and it’s decent for lightweight tasks. The plastic construction is durable enough for home use, and the retraction is smooth, but it’s not built for the high-pressure demands of pneumatic tools (300 PSI vs. Gardena’s 100-150 PSI for water). If you need a garden hose reel, Gardena’s reliable, but for air tools, stick with Reelcraft’s heavy-duty design.

What are the disadvantages of a hose reel?

Hose reels, including Reelcraft’s, have a few downsides. They can be heavy and tough to install, especially on ceilings or weak walls—my 43-pound Reelcraft was a two-person job. The locking mechanisms, like Reelcraft’s ratchet, sometimes only engage at set lengths, which can be frustrating mid-task. They’re also pricier than loose hoses, and budget models often sacrifice durability. Maintenance is another factor; springs can wear out, and hoses need regular checks for cracks. Finally, if your compressor is far from the reel, a short lead-in hose can force you to buy extra piping.

Conclusion: For Reelcraft Air Hose Reel

After months of using the Reelcraft air hose reel, I can say it’s a must-have for anyone serious about their workshop. It’s tough, reliable, and keeps your space clutter-free, saving you time and hassle. Despite a few quirks, like the finicky locking mechanism, its durability and performance make it a worthy investment. If you want a reel that’ll last for years and handle tough jobs, grab a Reelcraft—you won’t regret it.