Ended up with a G. Loomis labeled reel that was made in the USA. Anyone have an idea of who made it? I have also seen pictures of the same reel but made in argintina, assuming by STH. It's clicker was slightly different.
Button on back center allows the spool to be removed.

Shimano made the venture.

Thanks for posting those pictures Riffling Hitch. I remember seeing this reel in the 345 size a while ago and I just assumed it was a J. Ryall reel, but on closer examination I had my doubts. I reached out to Stu Heller (J. Ryall reel repair guru: http://troutmemories.webmate.me/Site/J. ... STORY.html) and he confirmed that J. Ryall never made a click and pawl reel. I know the Argentine reels you are referring too also, I do believe those are STH made reels. Similar checks to what you have, but not quite the same. I'm afraid I don't have a solid answer but the reel has piqued my curiosity. If I dig up anything else I'll let you know.

Nate

I dunno, but I do know this, that's one sweet looking reel. Calling Bulldog!? he'd most likely know...hopefully he'll weigh in on this thread.

how's you get a Loomis rod with a Powell reel seat?

I'm at a total loss, but it will come from matching that singular pawl design.
Gary Loomis was a machinist first, and wonder if maybe Loomis made them in house in Woodland, WA?
They were basically made at a time when it was tough to get a click-pawl reel past an FR&R review.
Also, manufacturing one cost as much as a Lamson or Abel

Very nice rig

Over the years, I've acquired a couple of the STH-made G. Loomis reels, that I think predate your made in USA ones. One is a 678 with the button-style spool release found on the original STH Airweights, while the other is 345 with a disc drag. The 678 is a click pawl with adjustable tension, but uses a drag mechanism that differs from the Airweight or Airweight Clik. Both are open frame and are marked "Made in Argentina ".
Crappy photos, but I'll try again if anyone needs a closer look.

Django, what makes you think the STH version predates the us version? In searching I did find a couple of pictures of STH branded reels that also said maid in the USA. Not sure what the STH USA connection is. I Think Cortland may have owned STH at some point. I was thinking the other way in that the USA reels would have come first and maybe been the prototypes. I wouldn't think STH would let their designs be copied but who knows.

Russell