Higher End Shimano Or Lew's? 2024
PitchinJigz reply :
So I pretty recently got a Lew's Team Lite reel in the 7.5:1. At first I loved the reel, but now I'm not so sure. The sideplates are graphite, which basically is overrated plastic IMO, I don't like the EVA grips' feel, and it isn't quite as smooth as I thought a $240 reel would be. The pros to this reel, though, are the 5.7 oz. weight, the carbon fiber handle, and the aesthetics are pretty nice. Now, for the controversy...I only have two Lew's reels (my only two baitcasting reels ATM), and I've been looking at the higher end Shimano reels. To me, they look much nicer. I felt a Curado I at a Cabela's I live by, and it seems great. Should I make the switch to Shimano before I invest too much into Lew's? I know Speed Spools are probably better than Caenans, but are Scorpions, Curado I's, and Chronarchs better than the Team Lites? Please give me some insight, thanks! 
Arv reply :
Around $200+ its hard to go wrong IMO, so a lot of it comes down to personal preference. Different reels will excel at different things but they are all quality. over $200, I feel like the steps up in performance are smaller. I do appreciate the higher end reels that I have fished with as they feel more refined, but does it make me a better fisherman? Not by a long shot. I say all that to suggest that you try out a Curado or a Chronarch if you want. Then make your decision from there. I haven't done anything but play with the Curado in store so I can't say a ton about it. I have the Chronarch Ci4 and like it a lot. You will hear different preferences between the two reels as some like one over the other. Now, if you can get your hands on a 50/51 size Shimano, that's probably where my money would go. Try them out. That's what makes fishing gear fun.
bootytrain reply :
Spend the money and get a Core 50 and never look back.
SirSnookalot reply :
Graphite comes from carbon, the same element diamonds come from. Graphite is used to reinforce a very large array of manufactured products. It's light, has a high degree of strength and stiffness, withstands a wide range of temperatures and doesn't rust.
The internals of a reel is what really matters. Graphite sideplates should have no effect on the performance of any reel, the sideplates don't really get much pressure on them anyway. Shimano uses graphite on the side plates of some of their spinning reels, they work beautifully. A Shimano TLD is all graphite and one of the real workhorses of offshore fishing, not the smoothest as the internals are not the same as some of the more expensive models.
Patrick Morrow reply :
If you have been only using Lew`s baitcasters so far then it is a good idea to try out Shimano ones, Curado is proven reel. After that you can compare both from your own experience and give us some conclusions too.
Tywithay reply :
The Curado has a graphite sideplate too. Most reels today do. I think that the Curado beats even the best Lews reel, from the ones I've used. If you buy one of Shimano's actual high end reels like a Metanium or Core, it's not close.
Grantman83 reply :
I love Lews reels but feel their "area" is in $200 and below. The bb1, super duty, tournament pro, bb1 pro (along with the recently dc'd tournament and tournament mf speed spool)are absolute workhorses which will stay smooth and tough for years. In that price range, they provide offer little things other companies don't like clicking drag star and spool tension, carbon fiber handles, longer handles,knob bearings etc. In fact, I feel that recently released tatula and Curado I are a direct result of the increased competition in this price area. Lew's is offering stuff that moved the needle.
That being said, once you start to go higher end, you are entering an area where DAIWA and Shimano excel. Not saying they don't mess up (t3 ballistic etc) but their experience does help them out. I had a team pro (300 dollar) and it was an awesome reel but I prefer mf chronarch d)
masterbass reply :
I've never fished the team lite, but I used to own mostly lews reels and I really liked them. I've since sold them all and went with shimano and daiwa. I'm not sure if they are better, but I prefer them. One of the things I really like about shimano/daiwa is all of the upgrade options available. I think lews makes a fantastic reel out of the box and if your intention is to just buy a reel and keep it stock then you can't lose. I love fishing, but tinkering with things like spool upgrades is like a whole other hobby for me. For $240 I'm looking for used shimano/daiwa that once retailed for $400.
HoosierHawgs reply :
Like said above its all about personal preference. Also, like said above, Lew's offers extras in the price range, which I like, considering I don't have the budget to throw at 6+ high end Shimano reels. Also, a reel that light is great in your hand, but some lightweight reels ist don't feel as solid. Usually the lightest I would go is 6.5 oz. I have nothing against the Shimanos, but I don't have the $, and I don't care to own several different reels. Going to all Lew's has allowed me to have great muscle memory from reel to reel, as they are all set up the same, similar to the Glock handgun platform.
Senko lover reply :
I am enjoying my new Lews, but I agree with the others on this one: they're great in the under 200 hundred dollar range, but I'd go with Shimano over that.
desmobob reply :
Interesting thread...
Right now, I have a couple of Lew's Tournament Pros and a couple Daiwa Tatulas, and an old Daiwa PT1500FL. I like the Lew's TPs a lot; the dual brakes, clicky adjustments, strong drag, and good looks. I really love the smooth feel of the Tatulas, but don't care for the extra weight.
What is it about the higher end Shimanos and Daiwas that make people recommend them over the Lew's? Is is just feel, or are there other technical advantages?
Tight lines,
Bob
Tywithay reply :
Mostly feel for me, though I do seem to get better performance out of the others as well. The Lews I've owned seemed to be more finicky and feel less refined. The multitude of options for the big 2 are nice, because I do like to tinker. I also like the fact that Daiwa and Shimano are adding new features and trying to innovate, whether it works well or not; while Lews just calls and orders what they want. Don't have a good reason why, just feel like my money should go towards progress.On 12/7/2014 at 9:29 PM, desmobob said:Interesting thread...
Right now, I have a couple of Lew's Tournament Pros and a couple Daiwa Tatulas, and an old Daiwa PT1500FL. I like the Lew's TPs a lot; the dual brakes, clicky adjustments, strong drag, and good looks. I really love the smooth feel of the Tatulas, but don't care for the extra weight.
What is it about the higher end Shimanos and Daiwas that make people recommend them over the Lew's? Is is just feel, or are there other technical advantages?
Tight lines,
Bob
HoosierHawgs reply :
On 12/7/2014 at 9:36 PM, Tywithay said:Mostly feel for me, though I do seem to get better performance out of the others as well. The Lews I've owned seemed to be more finicky and feel less refined. The multitude of options for the big 2 are nice, because I do like to tinker. I also like the fact that Daiwa and Shimano are adding new features and trying to innovate, whether it works well or not; while Lews just calls and orders what they want. Don't have a good reason why, just feel like my money should go towards progress.
Lew's is not progress? What about the beginnings of low profile? New features like dual breaking, distance and shape of the lwvelwind to decrease line friction and increase casting distance? Also, the Team Lew's and Tourney Pros are fairly refined in my opinion. If a touring pro like Jay Yellas can use his Lew's on tour w/grueling schedules for 2 years straight w/out a single issue, that's pretty darn good.
Tywithay reply :
Lews hasn't designed anything since they've become relevant in the last few years. That's what I meant by what I said. They call a manufacturer and say we want this, this, and that. They don't produce anything. They are plenty refined, but when I hold them side by side with a similarly priced Daiwa or Shimano, they don't feel on the same level. Fishing on tour for 2 years doesn't mean a whole lot. It's probably not the same reel every week, and there's tons of every brand. Going by that rationale, Quantum, Abu, Shimano, Daiwa, 13, Ardent, and everyone in between make great reels because they're all used during the grueling tour season.On 12/7/2014 at 9:47 PM, jakob1010 said:Lew's is not progress? What about the beginnings of low profile? New features like dual breaking, distance and shape of the lwvelwind to decrease line friction and increase casting distance? Also, the Team Lew's and Tourney Pros are fairly refined in my opinion. If a touring pro like Jay Yellas can use his Lew's on tour w/grueling schedules for 2 years straight w/out a single issue, that's pretty darn good.
rangerjockey reply :
I'm with Ty, I had 6 lews at one time and have gone back to all Shimano and Daiwa. Nothing wrong with Lews it's just a preference of mine.. I don't care for dual braking and had the BB1 pro's
I will say Lews has done a good job of marketing , and a lot of folks like them.
Grantman83 reply :
Let's not turn this into a brand thread loyalty thread though I sure see it going that way.
The progress term is kinda weird to me though. To be fair, I don't believe dual braking was a lew's invention. The distance from the level wind on the bb1 is less than that in the chronarch e (measured by keepitrealfishing on his video). I also find it funny that people laud the new curado/chronarch braking system as innovative when ABU had it on their MGX and quantum had on the smoke 150. The new curado was an attempt to retake a market they had begun losing to other brands at that price which where offering stuff that shimano wasn't IMO.
masterbass reply :
Lews would be my brand if I didn't use shimano/daiwa.
QUAKEnSHAKE reply :
Ive bougth Shimano Daiwa Lews Pflueger BPS Okuma reels the past five years. Ive had to return or exchange all but the shimano and diawa brands due to defects durability noises. If there is a reel that interests me though from another brand I will still give it a try but for some reason shimano and daiwa reels just work like they should.
I have a lightweight Okuma Helios rod that Im thinking the Lews Team Lite is the reel Ill pair with it. So going to give Lews another shot.
timsford reply :
I lovey lews reels for the price but if you want a truly high end reel, go daiwa/shimano.depending on what braking you like
Tywithay reply :
This is where I'm at. Not loyal to anyone and will try just about anything if something catches my eye. Been looking at the Team Lite myself, because the knobs look like something I might like, since I don't like the regular flat knobs at all. Plus, you can usually find Lew's on the auction site cheap, so it's worth a shot.On 12/7/2014 at 10:20 PM, QUAKEnSHAKE said:Ive bougth Shimano Daiwa Lews Pflueger BPS Okuma reels the past five years. Ive had to return or exchange all but the shimano and diawa brands due to defects durability noises. If there is a reel that interests me though from another brand I will still give it a try but for some reason shimano and daiwa reels just work like they should.
I have a lightweight Okuma Helios rod that Im thinking the Lews Team Lite is the reel Ill pair with it. So going to give Lews another shot.
HoosierHawgs reply :
The real question is how much are you willing to spend? If you are willing to spend $600 then go ahead and buy a Steez. I believe there is one for sale for around $400 in the flea market. But if not, then probably get something else. The only reel in the Lew's price range I would think of buying would be a Tatula, because they look sexy.
My 2 cents.
Tywithay reply :
On 12/7/2014 at 11:03 PM, jakob1010 said:The real question is how much are you willing to spend? If you are willing to spend $600 then go ahead and buy a Steez. I believe there is one for sale for around $400 in the flea market. But if not, then probably get something else. The only reel in the Lew's price range I would think of buying would be a Tatula, because they look sexy.
My 2 cents.
I don't really think the Steez is the best value out there for high end Daiwa. I have had a few, but never paid more than $300 for one. Most of the high end Daiwa/Shimano can be found well under retail if you look around. I've used a lot of the high end stuff and a good portion of the lower end stuff, and it's still hard to beat the Curado for the price. I do agree with the Tatula though, there's not a better reel for $100 anywhere; I'll always have a couple on hand.
Alonerankin2 reply :
You might be doing your self a disservice by not giving the industry leaders ( Shimano/ Daiwa ) a shot, seems you are already searching for a better tool. The graphite side plates, on low profiles or most reels , are not a disadvantage, plenty strong& rigid, maybe a trifle bit heavier. If you don't step out & try other company's product, you most certainly will never know.
thehooligan reply :
Go Shimano or Daiwa and dont look back 
QUAKEnSHAKE reply :
On 12/7/2014 at 1:14 PM, PitchinJigz said:So I pretty recently got a Lew's Team Lite reel in the 7.5:1. At first I loved the reel, but now I'm not so sure. The sideplates are graphite, which basically is overrated plastic IMO, I don't like the EVA grips' feel, and it isn't quite as smooth as I thought a $240 reel would be. The pros to this reel, though, are the 5.7 oz. weight, the carbon fiber handle, and the aesthetics are pretty nice. Now, for the controversy...I only have two Lew's reels (my only two baitcasting reels ATM), and I've been looking at the higher end Shimano reels. To me, they look much nicer. I felt a Curado I at a Cabela's I live by, and it seems great. Should I make the switch to Shimano before I invest too much into Lew's? I know Speed Spools are probably better than Caenans, but are Scorpions, Curado I's, and Chronarchs better than the Team Lites? Please give me some insight, thanks!
On 12/7/2014 at 11:40 PM, Alonerankin2 said:You might be doing your self a disservice by not giving the industry leaders ( Shimano/ Daiwa ) a shot, seems you are already searching for a better tool. The graphite side plates, on low profiles or most reels , are not a disadvantage, plenty strong& rigid, maybe a trifle bit heavier. If you don't step out & try other company's product, you most certainly will never know.
PitchinJigs dont discount quality graphite all together. The Shimano Chronarch CI4 is all graphite reel and for me has been an OUTSTANDING reel. Made in Japan, an ounce lighter, a little smaller spool & size than the CUI and like the brake dial placement better plus can be $220 at Gander right now.
Or CUI $160 fyi
Tywithay reply :
On 12/8/2014 at 12:12 AM, QUAKEnSHAKE said:PitchinJigs dont discount quality graphite all together. The Shimano Chronarch CI4 is all graphite reel and for me has been an OUTSTANDING reel. Made in Japan, an ounce lighter, a little smaller spool & size than the CUI and like the brake dial placement better plus can be $220 at Gander right now.
Or CUI $160 fyi
The CI4+ is a little different process than some graphite reels. It uses small carbon fibers mixed with the resin to form a rigid bond. Most reels use a powdered graphite, which isn't nearly as strong. The Chronarch is one of the better reels I've used though. I like it a lot and the CI4+ feels very sturdy.
HoosierHawgs reply :
I have some Graphite reels that are DECENT, but if I was going for a higher end reel I would look for an all metal frame, either aluminum, or even better, magnesium. Regular graphite reel flames will flex over time.
Tywithay reply :
On 12/8/2014 at 12:34 AM, jakob1010 said:I have some Graphite reels that are DECENT, but if I was going for a higher end reel I would look for an all metal frame, either aluminum, or even better, magnesium. Regular graphite reel flames will flex over time.
If they don't flex on day one, they aren't going to flex over time. The graphite won't get any weaker once it has been cured.
Alonerankin2 reply :
On low pro or round I defiantly want aluminum frame work, the exception is the Ci4+ reels.. Side plates with standard graphite compounds are plenty rigid, I believe Daiwa has a blend that's similar to ci4+.
HoosierHawgs reply :
On 12/7/2014 at 11:19 PM, Tywithay said:I don't really think the Steez is the best value out there for high end Daiwa. I have had a few, but never paid more than $300 for one. Most of the high end Daiwa/Shimano can be found well under retail if you look around. I've used a lot of the high end stuff and a good portion of the lower end stuff, and it's still hard to beat the Curado for the price. I do agree with the Tatula though, there's not a better reel for $100 anywhere; I'll always have a couple on hand.
This is very true. The tats seem like nice reels. I would also look at Pflueger in the price range as well, but I wouldn't but any other brand (Shimano, Abu, ECT.)
On 12/7/2014 at 11:40 PM, Alonerankin2 said:You might be doing your self a disservice by not giving the industry leaders ( Shimano/ Daiwa ) a shot, seems you are already searching for a better tool. The graphite side plates, on low profiles or most reels , are not a disadvantage, plenty strong& rigid, maybe a trifle bit heavier. If you don't step out & try other company's product, you most certainly will never know.
I did used to use Shimano reels exclusively. I had many of the Bantum line of reels (Greenies, Magnumlites, and Coriolus reels as well) They were good reels, but they've been used so much the anti reverse on them is shot. That was before Shimano's prices skyrocketed.
PitchinJigz reply :
On 12/7/2014 at 3:46 PM, SirSnookalot said:Graphite comes from carbon, the same element diamonds come from. Graphite is used to reinforce a very large array of manufactured products. It's light, has a high degree of strength and stiffness, withstands a wide range of temperatures and doesn't rust.
The internals of a reel is what really matters. Graphite sideplates should have no effect on the performance of any reel, the sideplates don't really get much pressure on them anyway. Shimano uses graphite on the side plates of some of their spinning reels, they work beautifully. A Shimano TLD is all graphite and one of the real workhorses of offshore fishing, not the smoothest as the internals are not the same as some of the more expensive models.
I guess I may have put that wrong, it's not that I don't trust graphite. I have reels with graphite that work just fine, but I really like the feel of aluminum or even the ci4+ material, which is a bit stronger feeling than your every day graphite seen on most reels.
PitchinJigz reply :
On 12/7/2014 at 8:30 PM, Grantman83 said:I love Lews reels but feel their "area" is in $200 and below. The bb1, super duty, tournament pro, bb1 pro (along with the recently dc'd tournament and tournament mf speed spool)are absolute workhorses which will stay smooth and tough for years. In that price range, they provide offer little things other companies don't like clicking drag star and spool tension, carbon fiber handles, longer handles,knob bearings etc. In fact, I feel that recently released tatula and Curado I are a direct result of the increased competition in this price area. Lew's is offering stuff that moved the needle.
That being said, once you start to go higher end, you are entering an area where DAIWA and Shimano excel. Not saying they don't mess up (t3 ballistic etc) but their experience does help them out. I had a team pro (300 dollar) and it was an awesome reel but I prefer mf chronarch d)
That's kinda what I was trying to say, I have no doubt in my mind that the LFS Speed Spools and Tournament MBs are better than the Caenans and Citicas. My concern is that Lew's kinda tops out after the BB1 Pro area. The Team Lite really doesn't seem like it's up to par with say a Curado I, Scorpion 200, Curado E, or Chronarch E. I just feel like with Shimano, I get that value that increases with how much you spend, instead of topping out at say the $180-$200 value.
PitchinJigz reply :
On 12/7/2014 at 11:54 PM, thehooligan said:Go Shimano or Daiwa and dont look back
That's what I'm contemplating doing. Also, I plan on upgrading my reels at one point with aftermarket products. With Lew's, there really isn't as many products to choose from at all.
PitchinJigz reply :
On 12/7/2014 at 10:46 PM, Tywithay said:This is where I'm at. Not loyal to anyone and will try just about anything if something catches my eye. Been looking at the Team Lite myself, because the knobs look like something I might like, since I don't like the regular flat knobs at all. Plus, you can usually find Lew's on the auction site cheap, so it's worth a shot.
Honestly the knobs look great, but don't feel great. I loved the look of them, but I'd rather have the normal Lew's paddle handles because the EVA is so uncomfortable.
Grantman83 reply :
I'd you wanna get rid of it, pm me and maybe we can work out a trade
PitchinJigz reply :
On 12/8/2014 at 1:37 AM, Grantman83 said:I'd you wanna get rid of it, pm me and maybe we can work out a trade
If I decide to, I'll definitely contact u.
Matthew2000 reply :
Team pro for 300
-One-Piece Aluminum Frame and Side Plates
-Titanium deposition Finish on Metal Side Plates
-Double Anodized Gold Detail Finishing
-Aircraft-grade Duralumin Drilled U-shape Spool, Drive Gear, Crank Shaft, and Worm Shaft
-Premium 11 Double-Shielded Stainless Steel Ball Bearing System
-Zero Reverse Anti-Reverse Bearing
-External-Adjust Multi-Setting Brake (MSB) Dual Cast Control System - utilizing both an external click-dial for setting magnetic brake, plus 4 individually - disk-mounted adjustable internal brake shoes that operate on centrifugal force.
-Double Anodized Metal Spool Tension Adjustment with Audible Click
-Rugged Carbon Composite Drag System
-Bowed, Drilled Anodized Metal Star Drag with Audible Click
-Bowed Lightweight Carbon Handle
-Durable High Density Foam Handle Knob
-Titanium-coated Zirconia Lin
Tywithay reply :
On 12/8/2014 at 4:16 AM, Matthew2000 said:Team pro for 300
-One-Piece Aluminum Frame and Side Plates
-Titanium deposition Finish on Metal Side Plates
-Double Anodized Gold Detail Finishing
-Aircraft-grade Duralumin Drilled U-shape Spool, Drive Gear, Crank Shaft, and Worm Shaft
-Premium 11 Double-Shielded Stainless Steel Ball Bearing System
-Zero Reverse Anti-Reverse Bearing
-External-Adjust Multi-Setting Brake (MSB) Dual Cast Control System - utilizing both an external click-dial for setting magnetic brake, plus 4 individually - disk-mounted adjustable internal brake shoes that operate on centrifugal force.
-Double Anodized Metal Spool Tension Adjustment with Audible Click
-Rugged Carbon Composite Drag System
-Bowed, Drilled Anodized Metal Star Drag with Audible Click
-Bowed Lightweight Carbon Handle
-Durable High Density Foam Handle Knob
-Titanium-coated Zirconia Lin
What does it have that makes it better than the Tournament Pro or Tournament Lite?
Grantman83 reply :
Probably that it is an all aluminum reel (sidepkates and frame) and still just 6oz. That's crazy. It also has a basically scratch proof titanium finish so it won't rash on the frame. The guide I used in California (mat allen) is a big shimano guy but he has several of these reels because their bearings don't rust out in brackish waters.
It's a solid solid reel.
Tywithay reply :
On 12/8/2014 at 4:24 AM, Grantman83 said:Probably that it is an all aluminum reel (sidepkates and frame) and still just 6oz. That's crazy. It also has a basically scratch proof titanium finish so it won't rash on the frame. The guide I used in California (mat allen) is a big shimano guy but he has several of these reels because their bearings don't rust out in brackish waters.
It's a solid solid reel.
I agree it's a solid reel, but it's not $100 better than the Tourney Pro, unless the price of aluminum went up.
QUAKEnSHAKE reply :
On 12/7/2014 at 1:14 PM, PitchinJigz said:So I pretty recently got a Lew's Team Lite reel in the 7.5:1. At first I loved the reel, but now I'm not so sure. The sideplates are graphite, which basically is overrated plastic IMO, I don't like the EVA grips' feel, and it isn't quite as smooth as I thought a $240 reel would be. The pros to this reel, though, are the 5.7 oz. weight, the carbon fiber handle, and the aesthetics are pretty nice. Now, for the controversy...I only have two Lew's reels (my only two baitcasting reels ATM), and I've been looking at the higher end Shimano reels. To me, they look much nicer. I felt a Curado I at a Cabela's I live by, and it seems great. Should I make the switch to Shimano before I invest too much into Lew's? I know Speed Spools are probably better than Caenans, but are Scorpions, Curado I's, and Chronarchs better than the Team Lites? Please give me some insight, thanks!
Anything else about the smoothness you can comment on? Have you handled a BB1 Pro to compare it to? I had a BB1 Pro and it to me was a very smooth feeling reel. Sounds like the Team Lite isnt up to par with the BB1 Pro. 3 of the 7 comments at TW praise the smoothness of the reel others no mention good or bad. Is there a chance something is wrong with yours???
I actually bought a Tatula BB1 Pro and CI4 at the same time and thought the Pro felt the smoothest but the sideplates gave it a cheesy feel/look maybe less refined like Tywithay mention.
bootytrain reply :
On 12/8/2014 at 4:16 AM, Matthew2000 said:Team pro for 300
-One-Piece Aluminum Frame and Side Plates
-Titanium deposition Finish on Metal Side Plates
-Double Anodized Gold Detail Finishing
-Aircraft-grade Duralumin Drilled U-shape Spool, Drive Gear, Crank Shaft, and Worm Shaft
-Premium 11 Double-Shielded Stainless Steel Ball Bearing System
-Zero Reverse Anti-Reverse Bearing
-External-Adjust Multi-Setting Brake (MSB) Dual Cast Control System - utilizing both an external click-dial for setting magnetic brake, plus 4 individually - disk-mounted adjustable internal brake shoes that operate on centrifugal force.
-Double Anodized Metal Spool Tension Adjustment with Audible Click
-Rugged Carbon Composite Drag System
-Bowed, Drilled Anodized Metal Star Drag with Audible Click
-Bowed Lightweight Carbon Handle
-Durable High Density Foam Handle Knob
-Titanium-coated Zirconia Lin
Instead of praising Lews, you should praise Doyo for this list of features.
PitchinJigz reply :
The free spool time isn't close to that of Curados/ Chronarchs. Lew's reels come with a lot of grease, which is a hassle to clean off. The actually reeling itself is smooth, but I'd like a bit more free spool time. Also, id rather have that connected feeling in the reeling process.On 12/8/2014 at 6:17 AM, QUAKEnSHAKE said:Anything else about the smoothness you can comment on? Have you handled a BB1 Pro to compare it to? I had a BB1 Pro and it to me was a very smooth feeling reel. Sounds like the Team Lite isnt up to par with the BB1 Pro. 3 of the 7 comments at TW praise the smoothness of the reel others no mention good or bad. Is there a chance something is wrong with yours???
I actually bought a Tatula BB1 Pro and CI4 at the same time and thought the Pro felt the smoothest but the sideplates gave it a cheesy feel/look maybe less refined like Tywithay mention.
Tywithay reply :
On 12/8/2014 at 8:07 AM, PitchinJigz said:The free spool time isn't close to that of Curados/ Chronarchs. Lew's reels come with a lot of grease, which is a hassle to clean off. The actually reeling itself is smooth, but I'd like a bit more free spool time. Also, id rather have that connected feeling in the reeling process.
Free spool has just about zero affect out on the water.
iabass8 reply :
On 12/8/2014 at 8:07 AM, PitchinJigz said:The free spool time isn't close to that of Curados/ Chronarchs. Lew's reels come with a lot of grease, which is a hassle to clean off. The actually reeling itself is smooth, but I'd like a bit more free spool time. Also, id rather have that connected feeling in the reeling process.
If you want free spool time just to gawk at it, get better bearings and turn of all your brakes. Aside from that, free spool time is not indicative of a reels casting performance.
Alonerankin2 reply :
That's about the last thing in the world (freespool) to judge a reel by, the spool still has to be controlled. I wouldn't let that be a decision factor moving fwd on a new purchase, at all..
Matthew2000 reply :
Turn your brakes on 0 = free spool
Matthew2000 reply :
Also pitching jigs I think you really just started this to see the debate you really haven't said a thing positive about lews. You sound like the classic shims no not willing to give anything a try but instead just throw your negative views about it.
HoosierHawgs reply :
Most companies have their fanboys these days. I feel like they go around tackle warehouse trashing other reels. I get the impression that certain brands are made by god and there not. To be truthfully honest, I've never had a reel from any company I haven't been satisfied with. At a certain price point its not going to fish any better. It may last longer, but its not going to make you better at fishing by any means. Only to a certain point does a reel effect your performance.
deep reply :
On 12/8/2014 at 9:49 AM, Matthew2000 said:Turn your brakes on 0 = free spool
lol
Matthew2000 reply :
Same I am 14 years old and on a very tight budget. The only reason I use lews Is because IMO they are the best reel for under 130. I have used basically every brand out there and not found one I like better. If your against something from the start especially rods and reels your not going to change.
PitchinJigz reply :
On 12/8/2014 at 9:40 AM, iabass8 said:If you want free spool time just to gawk at it, get better bearings and turn of all your brakes. Aside from that, free spool time is not indicative of a reels casting performance.
The point of this topic is whether high end Shimano is better than Lew's. I started it to get opinions from people with experience with both companies. I probably shouldn't have put in the part about my Team Lite, because it's irrelevant to the main idea of the thread.
PitchinJigz reply :
On 12/8/2014 at 10:01 AM, Matthew2000 said:Same I am 14 years old and on a very tight budget. The only reason I use lews Is because IMO they are the best reel for under 130. I have used basically every brand out there and not found one I like better. If your against something from the start especially rods and reels your not going to change.
I have a Lew's RZ/ZR baitcast combo that goes for $80, and I love it. Their low value reels are great for the prices.
PitchinJigz reply :
On 12/8/2014 at 9:52 AM, Matthew2000 said:Also pitching jigs I think you really just started this to see the debate you really haven't said a thing positive about lews. You sound like the classic shims no not willing to give anything a try but instead just throw your negative views about it.
I currently use all Lew's...how did I start the topic for a debate?
Matthew2000 reply :
I agree they are much better than shimanos lower end in my experience
PitchinJigz reply :
On 12/8/2014 at 9:40 AM, Alonerankin2 said:That's about the last thing in the world (freespool) to judge a reel by, the spool still has to be controlled. I wouldn't let that be a decision factor moving fwd on a new purchase, at all..
I really like that kinda stuff. Free spool time, upgrades...JDM type things I guess.
PitchinJigz reply :
On 12/8/2014 at 10:18 AM, Matthew2000 said:I agree they are much better than shimanos lower end in my experience
I've tried a Caenan, don't like it that much. But that's besides the point. I believe a Lew's low end reel is better, but a Shimano high end is probably better...
Matthew2000 reply :
I really like to mess with my tackle and not worry with my reels or rods
iabass8 reply :
On 12/8/2014 at 10:15 AM, PitchinJigz said:The point of this topic is whether high end Shimano is better than Lew's. I started it to get opinions from people with experience with both companies. I probably shouldn't have put in the part about my Team Lite, because it's irrelevant to the main idea of the thread.
You aren't asking about higher end shimano reels. You're asking about Curados, Scorpions, and chronarch E's which are their mid level reels. I do have experience /w both and can't give an indicative answer because you aren't comparing apples to apples. I wouldn't consider the lew's lite a high end reel but it's within Lew's high end reels if that makes sense.
Asking "if you should the switch to shimano" or "is shimano better than lews" is only going to cause a p_issing contest over brand loyalty. it's, for lack of a better word, an asinine question. you will get a few answers here and there but the only thing you can do is try out both. Neither reel is better than other at their respective price. i.e a tournament pro isn't a better reel than the chronarch or vise versa.. every answer to that is personal preference and nit picking small nuances. At a certain point, it's the user, not the reel.
I just saw you said you like free spool time....then learn to clean a reel. It's a very basic thing to do and it should be done /w every single reel you buy. More times than not, a reel has too much grease in it and the bearings are over oiled. JFRANCO posted a video he did /w stock flushed bearings on a chronarch and it spun for a very long time. you can do this /w any reel...there's lots of upgrades you can do do reels. there's obviously more options for shimano and diawa. If you want JDM stuff, then buy JDM stuff...The "extra's' you upgrade from JDM are almost all for aesthetic purposes until you get to spool upgrades. Hawgtech does custom coloring on reel parts. contact the site sponsor if you want that done.
PitchinJigz reply :
Good points. I actually planned on getting a Shimano (Chronarch E, Curado E, Curado I, Scorpion) with a Hawgtech handle, tension knob, and drag star with bearing upgrades if I sold my Team Lite. I plan on doing a full cleaning of my Team Lite. I know Lew's puts a lot of grease in their reels. I'm going to fish some more with my Team Lite before I come to a conclusion whether to trade it off for a Shimano or not. Really the point of this topic was to see if anyone had used both $180-$250 Lew's and Shimano and to get their opinion,On 12/8/2014 at 10:35 AM, iabass8 said:You aren't asking about higher end shimano reels. You're asking about Curados, Scorpions, and chronarch E's which are their mid level reels. I do have experience /w both and can't give an indicative answer because you aren't comparing apples to apples. I wouldn't consider the lew's lite a high end reel but it's within Lew's high end reels if that makes sense.
Asking "if you should the switch to shimano" or "is shimano better than lews" is only going to cause a p_issing contest over brand loyalty. it's, for lack of a better word, an asinine question. you will get a few answers here and there but the only thing you can do is try out both. Neither reel is better than other at their respective price. i.e a tournament pro isn't a better reel than the chronarch or vise versa.. every answer to that is personal preference and nit picking small nuances. At a certain point, it's the user, not the reel.
I just saw you said you like free spool time....then learn to clean a reel. It's a very basic thing to do and it should be done /w every single reel you buy. More times than not, a reel has too much grease in it and the bearings are over oiled. JFRANCO posted a video he did /w stock flushed bearings on a chronarch and it spun for a very long time. you can do this /w any reel...there's lots of upgrades you can do do reels. there's obviously more options for shimano and diawa. If you want JDM stuff, then buy JDM stuff...The "extra's' you upgrade from JDM are almost all for aesthetic purposes until you get to spool upgrades. Hawgtech does custom coloring on reel parts. contact the site sponsor if you want that done.
fisherrw reply :
I love my Chronarch its an awesome reel...
EvanT123 reply :
I'm a shimano guy that's just what I choose to spend my money on. I haven't used a new shimano baitcaster with micro module and/or
Xship. I don't think though you will be totally blown away. I started bait casting with an abu orra s which I can still consider a good reel. I like the shimano because you can set and forget it and is very hard to backlash. They still break though so nothing is perfect. Buy one try it and if you like it great but I don't think it will be a complete game changer.
PitchinJigz reply :
Makes sense. I'll keep all that in mind. I am really liking the new looks of the Shimanos in the Curado I, Chronarch Ci4+, Core, and the new Scorpions. The XShip seems a bit overrated if you ask me.On 12/8/2014 at 11:02 AM, EvanT123 said:I'm a shimano guy that's just what I choose to spend my money on. I haven't used a new shimano baitcaster with micro module and/or
Xship. I don't think though you will be totally blown away. I started bait casting with an abu orra s which I can still consider a good reel. I like the shimano because you can set and forget it and is very hard to backlash. They still break though so nothing is perfect. Buy one try it and if you like it great but I don't think it will be a complete game changer.
bootytrain reply :
On 12/8/2014 at 1:44 PM, PitchinJigz said:Makes sense. I'll keep all that in mind. I am really liking the new looks of the Shimanos in the Curado I, Chronarch Ci4+, Core, and the new Scorpions. The XShip seems a bit overrated if you ask me.
Xship is legit and it does exactly what Shimano says it does. More power and smoothness under load.
PitchinJigz reply :
That's actually great to know for future reference. Thanks!On 12/8/2014 at 1:57 PM, bootytrain said:Xship is legit and it does exactly what Shimano says it does. More power and smoothness under load.
baluga reply :
If you have $250 to burn, I would recommend to check the fleabay for a used Conquest 50. It will definitely turn you in to a Shimano fan. You don't even need to upgrade any of it's component to make it look good, it's just perfect.
But I have to warn you though, it multiplies like gremlins once you tried one. 
PitchinJigz reply :
I've never really gotten the round reel thing. It doesn't fit in your hand well and isn't as light as lo pro reels. If I was gonna get a 50 size Shimano, it'd probably be a Chronarch.On 12/8/2014 at 2:45 PM, baluga said:If you have $250 to burn, I would recommend to check the fleabay for a used Conquest 50. It will definitely turn you in to a Shimano fan. You don't even need to upgrade any of it's component to make it look good, it's just perfect.
But I have to warn you though, it multiplies like gremlins once you tried one.
Tywithay reply :
On 12/8/2014 at 9:28 PM, PitchinJigz said:I've never really gotten the round reel thing. It doesn't fit in your hand well and isn't as light as lo pro reels. If I was gonna get a 50 size Shimano, it'd probably be a Chronarch.
Have you held a 50 sized Conquest? It sits lower on the rod than almost any low profile reel currently on the market and only weighs 7.3oz, which is lighter than a good portion of the reels out there (nearly the same as the Chronarch 50e). I don't think you'd understand just how small they are unless you see one in person. Not saying you should get one necessarily, just don't let the round reel thing fool you.
PitchinJigz reply :
I've never held one. I may have to do that.On 12/8/2014 at 9:32 PM, Tywithay said:Have you held a 50 sized Conquest? It sits lower on the rod than almost any low profile reel currently on the market and only weighs 7.3oz, which is lighter than a good portion of the reels out there (nearly the same as the Chronarch 50e). I don't think you'd understand just how small they are unless you see one in person. Not saying you should get one necessarily, just don't let the round reel thing fool you.
baluga reply :
On 12/8/2014 at 9:28 PM, PitchinJigz said:I've never really gotten the round reel thing. It doesn't fit in your hand well and isn't as light as lo pro reels. If I was gonna get a 50 size Shimano, it'd probably be a Chronarch.
Among the small curado 50e, CH50, Daiwa ITO 103h, Calcutta 50XT Conquest 50, the Conquest 50 and 50XT are my favorites. They are the most comfortable ones when palming.
HoosierHawgs reply :
On 12/8/2014 at 10:59 PM, baluga said:Among the small curado 50e, CH50, Daiwa ITO 103h, Calcutta 50XT Conquest 50, the Conquest 50 and 50XT are my favorites. They are the most comfortable ones when palming.
Even compared to 50 size lo pros?
J Francho reply :
On 12/8/2014 at 11:10 PM, jakob1010 said:Even compared to 50 size lo pros?
Says everyone that never used a 50 series round reel. They actually palm a little smaller, due to the shape. They are shorter, longitudinally than a low pro.
thehooligan reply :
On 12/8/2014 at 11:10 PM, jakob1010 said:Even compared to 50 size lo pros?
Took a quick pic for the people that have never had the oppurtunity to handle a Conquest 50/51.
Conquest 51s & Core 51
Best looking and smoothest reel in the business 
HoosierHawgs reply :
On 12/8/2014 at 11:38 PM, J Francho said:Says everyone that never used a 50 series round reel. They actually palm a little smaller, due to the shape. They are shorter, longitudinally than a low pro.
On 12/8/2014 at 11:53 PM, thehooligan said:
Took a quick pic for the people that have never had the oppurtunity to handle a Conquest 50/51.
Conquest 51s & Core 51
Best looking and smoothest reel in the business
Haha. Thanks guys!
HoosierHawgs reply :
Those look a lot like the original Shimano knobs in my Bantum reels... Are they Hawgtech?
J Francho reply :
Look like ZPI to me.
thehooligan reply :
On 12/9/2014 at 1:21 AM, J Francho said:Look like ZPI to me.
Yep, ZPI aluminum knobs
PitchinJigz reply :
ZPIOn 12/9/2014 at 1:18 AM, jakob1010 said:Those look a lot like the original Shimano knobs in my Bantum reels... Are they Hawgtech?
Basswhippa reply :
On 12/7/2014 at 9:06 PM, Senko lover said:I am enjoying my new Lews, but I agree with the others on this one: they're great in the under 200 hundred dollar range, but I'd go with Shimano over that.
X2. The higher end Lews are basically the same as the $59.00 ones with a couple of extra bearings in the handle and here and there. Stick with Shimano.
powerduster reply :
I have a shimano TLD 15/30s and 3 Penn 320 gt2s. My dad bought the Penns a while ago, which was still made in the US when he got them. All of them are solid graphite frames and side plates, and plenty strong. I was raised on deep sea and wreck fishing as a kid, and they are what we've always used. The graphite has held up great in the corrosive saltwater environment and big fish. I can't say the same for the the metal components like the handle and level wind assembly, which I had to disassemble and refurbish back to looking new. Of course I prefer a metal frame and sideplates on my conventional gear, but it's mostly for asthetic reasons and the way it feels in my hands, but I would not discount a well built graphite either.
powerduster reply :
I never tried the Lews, but I do like the higher end Shimano's
Ozark_Basser reply :
I've never tried the higher end Lews. The most expensive Shimano baitcaster I've ever owned was the Curado E. I have owned the first Citica that came out and a Lew's in the same price range. I wore them both out but the Citica took much longer.
J Francho reply :
I think the first Citica came out when you were around three years old, lol.
aavery2 reply :
My personal opinion when comparing reels based on engineering the Japanese reels trump the Korean and Chinese based reels a good majority of the time. The Korean reels often rely on bells and whistles to earn your purchase. With this said I fish primarily Korean based reels, so my opinion in not one that is fan based. When you get past the knobs and clicks and carbon fiber the Japanese reels are a better engineered product in my opinion.
Ozark_Basser reply :
On 12/10/2014 at 3:31 AM, J Francho said:I think the first Citica came out when you were around three years old, lol.
Yeah. My mistake. I should have said the first one I remember coming out. The E series is the one I was using for the comparison.
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