Setting drag on reel

Question
I am new to the sport of fishing, and have little knowledge of rods & reels.  I recently bought a spinning combo setup from my neighbor, and cannot figure out how to set the drag properly.  There were no instructions, and I don't want to break the darn thing.  It is an Eagle Claw spinning combo.(model# MS6320CR)  The reel itself is an Eagle Claw model ECC30, 1 ballbearing, and has a 4.8:1 gear ratio.  I hope this is enough information for you to help me.  I appreciate the assistance.  Thanks, Chris

Answer
Hi there Chris...easy enough. Welcome the the wonderful world of fishing!
 The spinning rod and reel you have picked up is a great way to start off.
 The drag system is easy to work with and should be set to avoid any fish from putting so much pressure on the line that it breaks. Most fishermen rarely know the proper way to set the drag, so you're not alone. THE best way is to get a good scale like a chantillion brass tube scale ( kinda expensive but very accurate for a spring-based scale), put the proper line on your reel based on the rod and reel ratings and run it through the guides. ( Be sure to open the bail first).
  Now with the line through the guides and tip, run about 6 feet out and ensure the bail is closed. Tie a good knot to the scale's hook and have someone hold it for you. Take a few paces away from your friend and the scale and hold the rod at a 45 degree angle. Slowly lift the rod until the spool of the reel begins to spin against the drag. At the moment that the drag begins to move, have your friend tell you the lbs. of pull. You should set the drag to about 25% of the breaking strength of the line...That is the best way.
  Most anglers eventually get a good feel for the drag tension they want for the rod, reel, line and even the type of fish you may be fishing for. (Many fish have very delicate mouths...like crappie...and a very light drag setting may well help you land more fish...) So the easiest way is through trial and error by educating your hand through pulling it from the reel or getting a feel for the tension on the spool itself as you turn it with your fingers...don't get me wrong, you may loose some good fish by guessing, but most anglers do. The guys that take the time to adjust the drag with drag scale most often do not suffer loss of fish due to the line breaking due to the tension. ( You may have abraisions, bruises etc. on the line that will cause premature breaks.)
 In addition to the drag setting, make sure the drag system is clean and lubricated with good lithium grease. Also ensure that the roller on the bail spins freely and is without grooves. If the rod has ceramic guides (or bad stainless/ chrome or other)they may be cracked or grooved. Take a piece of ladies nylon stocking and run it over the surfaces that the line will touch and you will find line damaging areas.
 Well Chris, I hope you enjoy getting started with you fishing adventures and remember that good gear doesn't have to cost too much. Spend what you can afford and get out on the water as often as possible.
 I'll be here if you have ANY other questions from Bluegill to Blue Marlin and everything in between.

Hope this helps you out! Feel free to contact me anytime.
                     Mark Rimmer- Allexperts.com