Don't let us stop you from buying one they are also good reels, it's all about personal preference. Each reel has its good qualities but it just seems that once you've owned an Islander and try out a Milner reel, you want to buy one.
I agree, the Islander is a great reel and I enjoy using it. I just wish they would have put the clicker knob the same place they are on the Milner's, but then I guess they would've had to make a left and a right model instead of the ambidextrous one. I got a look at the new Islander that is coming out and it does have the knob on the back. I think this will be good for their sales. Some people don't even use the clicker , except for travelling from here to there, I do though, I like the sound of a screaming reel in my hands
For a person just getting started, I would suggest they go cheap, for the simple reason, it's not for everyone. Some people will go out and buy a $600 reel with a $500 rod, fish twice and say this is crazy , I can't do this, and go back to their baitcaster etc. But then that's where we get the good deals sometimes.
I think we all should tell "Flyrod" to lower the price on that MacDonald, say $500 obo
Definately get some bites then