A handle assembly for a spinning reel with a handle 121 and a handle shaft 122 with a distal-end portion 122AA screwed to a tubular gear shaft 113A and a base-end portion onto which the handle is attached. A tubular member 123 covers the handle shaft. The handle has a flange 122B between the distal end portion and the base end portion, and the tubular member has a first portion 123B abutting the flange 122B and a second portion abutting a shaft bearing of the gear shaft 114B. There may be a housing 111, 112 forming an accommodation space S. There may be a retaining spring 125 to prevent the tubular member being pulled off the handle shaft. Also discloses is a spinning reel comprising the handle assembly. The design is intended to prevent the handle shaft being excessively screwed into the gear shaft, and prevent buckling of the gear portion if excess force is applied.
