A self-tensioning wire reel comprises two flanges threaded together such that, when a brake shoe applies a braking force to one flange, the other flange is free to continue rotating. This rotation on the threaded hubs brings the flanges closer together, exerting a lateral force on the wire coil therebetween and thus keeping the coil sufficiently tight to prevent binding during the unreeling operation. The brake shoe is a resilient cylindrical disk applied to the outer rim of one flange when tension is relieved on the wire. The tightness of fit between the disk brake and the shaft upon which it rotates controls the frictional braking force.
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