Lew’s Custom Shop Oversize Round Knob Review

First Impressions of Lew’s Custom Shop Oversize Round Knob

The Lew’s Custom Shop Oversize Round Knob promises an immediate upgrade to the feel and control of your Lew’s baitcasting reels. As an avid angler with over a decade of experience in outdoor gear, I’m always on the lookout for small changes that can make a big difference on the water. I was particularly intrigued by the claim of enhanced grip and comfort in both wet and dry conditions, a crucial factor when battling feisty fish in unpredictable weather.

I’ve been plagued by slippery reel handles in the past, especially during early morning fishing when dew is heavy. The standard knobs on many reels often feel undersized and lack the tactile feedback needed for precise lure control. My hope was that the Lew’s Custom Shop Oversize Round Knob would address these issues, providing a more secure and comfortable grip that would translate to better casting accuracy and more confident retrieves.

Upon receiving the package, I immediately noticed the quality of the materials. The Winn Dri-Tac material felt soft and grippy, even before hitting the water. Compared to the stock knobs on my Lew’s Tournament Pro LFS and Speed Spool LFS reels, the difference in size was immediately apparent, suggesting a more substantial and comfortable grip. I chose this over other aftermarket knobs primarily for the reputation of Winn Dri-Tac and the guaranteed compatibility with my existing reels. My initial impression was one of excitement – I couldn’t wait to get this thing on the water!

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Real-World Testing: Putting Lew’s Custom Shop Oversize Round Knob to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test came during a pre-dawn bass fishing trip on Lake Fork, Texas. The air was thick with humidity, and a light rain began to fall shortly after I arrived. Typically, these conditions would have me constantly wiping down my reel handle to maintain a decent grip.

The Lew’s Custom Shop Oversize Round Knob performed admirably under pressure. Even with wet hands, the Winn Dri-Tac material provided exceptional grip, allowing me to maintain a solid hold throughout my casts and retrieves. I immediately felt more connected to the reel and noticed an improvement in my casting distance and accuracy. The larger size of the knob made it easier to find and grip quickly, especially when reacting to sudden strikes.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Lew’s Custom Shop Oversize Round Knob has proven to be a worthwhile upgrade. The durability of the Winn Dri-Tac material has been impressive; it shows no signs of wear or degradation despite constant exposure to sun, water, and fish slime. Cleaning is a breeze – a quick rinse with soap and water is all it takes to keep the knob looking and feeling like new.

Compared to previous aftermarket reel knobs I’ve used, the Lew’s offering stands out for its superior grip and durability. While some cheaper options may provide a similar initial feel, they often degrade quickly and become slippery after repeated use. This knob’s performance has exceeded my expectations, offering a noticeable improvement in comfort and control that enhances my overall fishing experience.

Breaking Down the Features of Lew’s Custom Shop Oversize Round Knob

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Lew’s
• Material: Winn Dri-Tac overmold
• Compatibility: All Lew’s low profile baitcast reels
• Included: One Winn Dri-Tac knob, one black knob cap
• Dimensions: Approximately 5 inches in length and 2.8 inches in width. (This seems to be the package dimensions. The knob itself is much smaller.)

These specifications are important because they ensure compatibility with Lew’s reels and provide insight into the knob’s material and construction. The Winn Dri-Tac material is known for its excellent grip in wet conditions, and the oversized design contributes to enhanced comfort and control.

Performance & Functionality

The Lew’s Custom Shop Oversize Round Knob significantly enhances the performance and functionality of Lew’s baitcasting reels. Its primary function is to provide a more secure and comfortable grip, which translates to improved casting accuracy, more confident retrieves, and reduced hand fatigue.

The strength of this knob lies in its exceptional grip, even when wet. A potential weakness is the Winn Dri-Tac material’s susceptibility to damage from sharp objects, though this hasn’t been an issue in my experience. This knob meets and exceeds expectations, delivering a noticeable improvement in reel handling and control.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Lew’s Custom Shop Oversize Round Knob prioritizes both functionality and aesthetics. The oversized round shape fits comfortably in the hand, and the Winn Dri-Tac material provides a soft, yet secure grip.

The knob is relatively lightweight, adding minimal bulk to the reel. Installation is straightforward and requires no special tools.

Durability & Maintenance

The Winn Dri-Tac material is surprisingly durable, resisting wear and tear from sun, water, and fish slime. The knob is also easy to clean, requiring only a quick rinse with soap and water.

With proper care, the Lew’s Custom Shop Oversize Round Knob should last for years of reliable use. I anticipate minimal maintenance will be needed, further adding to its long-term value.

Accessories and Customization Options

The package includes one Winn Dri-Tac knob and a black knob cap. While the customization options are limited to color choices, the knob is compatible with most Lew’s baitcasting reels, offering a universal upgrade.

I am unaware of any third-party accessories designed specifically for this knob. The existing color options provide sufficient customization for most anglers.

Pros and Cons of Lew’s Custom Shop Oversize Round Knob

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Who Should Buy Lew’s Custom Shop Oversize Round Knob?

The Lew’s Custom Shop Oversize Round Knob is perfect for anglers who prioritize comfort, control, and enhanced grip on their Lew’s baitcasting reels. It’s particularly beneficial for anglers who fish in wet or humid conditions, or those who suffer from hand fatigue during long fishing sessions.

This product might not be necessary for anglers who are perfectly satisfied with the standard knobs on their reels. Those who prefer a smaller, more compact reel handle may also want to consider other options. A must-have accessory would be a reel cleaning kit to keep the entire reel, including the knob, in top condition.

Conclusion on Lew’s Custom Shop Oversize Round Knob

The Lew’s Custom Shop Oversize Round Knob is a simple yet effective upgrade that can significantly enhance your fishing experience. Its superior grip, enhanced comfort, and improved control make it a worthwhile investment for any angler using Lew’s baitcasting reels.

The price of $16.99 is justified by the noticeable improvement in performance and the durability of the Winn Dri-Tac material. I would personally recommend this product to any angler looking to upgrade their reel handle and improve their overall fishing experience. Upgrade your grip, upgrade your game – add the Lew’s Custom Shop Oversize Round Knob to your setup today!