A reel comprises a cylindrical core composed of two complementary arcuate core segments, a pair of flanges disposed respectively at axially spaced opposite ends of the core, and a pair of rings for connecting the core to the flanges. The rings are fixed respectively to facing inner sides of the flanges. Cooperating slots and tongues on the rings and core elements prevent the flanges from moving relative to the core in the direction of the axis of the core. The tongues enter the slots when the core segments are brought together. Resiliently bendable locking arms protrude radially inward from both ends of each core segment, and each locking arm is engageable by a snap fit with one of the rings when the core segments are brought together. Access openings in the flanges adjacent each of the locking arms allow access to the locking arms for disengagement from the rings.