First Impressions of Lew’s Custom Shop Standard Round Winn Knob
The Lew’s Custom Shop Standard Round Winn Knob promises a simple yet effective upgrade to your low-profile baitcast reel. Lew’s has built a reputation for quality and innovation in fishing gear, and this knob aims to enhance grip and control. This isn’t just a cosmetic change; it’s about improving the overall fishing experience.
What spurred my interest in the Lew’s Custom Shop Standard Round Winn Knob? I’ve been experiencing some slippage with the stock knobs on my reels, especially when dealing with larger fish or fishing in wet conditions. A more secure grip seemed crucial to land those trophy catches.
Upon unboxing, the Lew’s Custom Shop Standard Round Winn Knob feels substantial, featuring the distinct Winn Dri-Tac material. The grip is immediately noticeable, far tackier than the standard hard plastic knobs I’m accustomed to. The included black knob cap is a nice touch, providing a clean, finished look.
I considered options from other brands, like Shimano and Daiwa reel upgrades, but the Winn grip material and the direct Lew’s compatibility swayed my decision. I was drawn to the promise of superior grip without sacrificing sensitivity. The round shape appealed to my preference for a natural, ergonomic feel.
My initial impression is positive. I’m eager to see if the Lew’s Custom Shop Standard Round Winn Knob lives up to the hype on the water, providing the enhanced control I’m seeking. This upgrade appears well-made and ready to improve my fishing game.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lew’s Custom Shop Standard Round Winn Knob to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Lew’s Custom Shop Standard Round Winn Knob on a recent bass fishing trip to Lake Fork, Texas. This lake is known for its big bass and varying weather conditions, providing an ideal testing ground. The weather ranged from sunny and dry to drizzly and humid, allowing me to assess the grip in diverse situations.
The difference was immediately apparent. Even with wet hands from handling fish, the Winn grip provided a secure and confident hold. The knob’s round shape felt natural and comfortable, requiring minimal adjustment from my usual casting and retrieving motions.
Initially, I was concerned about potential over-gripping due to the tackiness, but this proved unfounded. The grip was secure without being restrictive, allowing for subtle adjustments during retrieves. The knob cap stayed securely in place, a testament to the quality of the components.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Lew’s Custom Shop Standard Round Winn Knob has held up remarkably well. There are no visible signs of wear and tear on the Winn material, despite exposure to sun, water, and fish slime. Cleaning is simple – a quick wipe down with a damp cloth restores the grip to its original tackiness.
I’ve used the knob while battling several largemouth bass, including one exceeding 7 pounds, and the enhanced grip provided a significant advantage in maintaining control. I noticed less fatigue in my hand and wrist, particularly during longer fishing sessions. This is a significant improvement over my previous experiences with slick, hard plastic knobs.
Compared to other reel upgrades I’ve tried in the past, the Lew’s Custom Shop Standard Round Winn Knob stands out for its combination of comfort, grip, and durability. This is a worthwhile addition to my fishing arsenal.
Breaking Down the Features of Lew’s Custom Shop Standard Round Winn Knob
Specifications
The Lew’s Custom Shop Standard Round Winn Knob is designed as a direct replacement for the knobs on Lew’s low-profile baitcast reels. The package includes one round Winn Dri-Tac knob and one black knob cap. The listed dimensions are 5 inches in length and 2.8 inches in width; these are packaging dimensions and not the knob dimensions.
The Winn Dri-Tac material offers superior grip, even in wet conditions. Its round profile provides a natural and ergonomic feel. The inclusion of a knob cap allows for a seamless and professional finish. These specifications contribute to enhanced control and comfort during fishing.
Performance & Functionality
The Lew’s Custom Shop Standard Round Winn Knob excels in its primary function: providing a secure and comfortable grip. The Winn material lives up to its reputation, offering exceptional tackiness even when wet or covered in fish slime. The round shape fits comfortably in hand, reducing fatigue during long days on the water.
Its strength lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. There’s no complicated installation or learning curve. The main drawback is that it only fits Lew’s low-profile baitcast reels; it’s not a universal upgrade. The performance exceeds expectations; it is what Lew’s promises.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lew’s Custom Shop Standard Round Winn Knob features a simple yet effective design. The Winn material is molded precisely to the round knob shape, ensuring a seamless and comfortable feel. The weight is negligible, so it doesn’t affect the reel’s balance.
The design prioritizes function over aesthetics, but the knob looks good on my reels. The round shape and Winn grip provide a comfortable and secure hold. Installation is straightforward, requiring minimal effort.
Durability & Maintenance
The Winn Dri-Tac material appears durable and resistant to wear and tear. After weeks of use, there are no signs of degradation or peeling. Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed.
With proper care, the Lew’s Custom Shop Standard Round Winn Knob should last for several seasons. Replacement knob caps may be needed over time, but this is a minor concern. This is a well-made product designed for long-term use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lew’s Custom Shop Standard Round Winn Knob comes with the Winn knob and a black knob cap. There are no additional accessories included, nor are there many customization options. The primary customization is choosing between different colors of Winn grips if available.
While not extensively customizable, the Lew’s Custom Shop Standard Round Winn Knob is a simple and effective upgrade that addresses a common problem: slippery reel knobs. Its compatibility is limited to Lew’s low-profile baitcast reels, which limits accessory cross-compatibility.
Pros and Cons of Lew’s Custom Shop Standard Round Winn Knob
Pros
- Superior Grip: The Winn Dri-Tac material provides an exceptional grip, even in wet conditions.
- Enhanced Comfort: The round shape offers a natural and ergonomic feel, reducing hand fatigue.
- Easy Installation: Replacing the stock knob is quick and simple.
- Improved Control: The enhanced grip translates to better control during casting and retrieving.
- Durable Construction: The Winn material is resistant to wear and tear, ensuring long-lasting performance.
Cons
- Limited Compatibility: Only compatible with Lew’s low-profile baitcast reels.
- Minimal Customization: Limited to color options for the Winn grip.
Who Should Buy Lew’s Custom Shop Standard Round Winn Knob?
The Lew’s Custom Shop Standard Round Winn Knob is perfect for anglers who use Lew’s low-profile baitcast reels and desire a more secure and comfortable grip. Pro anglers competing in tournaments will appreciate the added control and reduced fatigue. Casual anglers who fish regularly will also benefit from the improved grip and comfort.
Those who do not own Lew’s low-profile baitcast reels should skip this product. Anglers seeking extensive customization options may also find this upgrade too simplistic. Also, if you’re content with your current reel knobs, this upgrade may not be necessary.
Must-have modifications would be to also consider a full handle upgrade to maximize the benefit from the improved grip. This creates a fully custom and personalized fishing experience.
Conclusion on Lew’s Custom Shop Standard Round Winn Knob
The Lew’s Custom Shop Standard Round Winn Knob is a simple yet highly effective upgrade for Lew’s low-profile baitcast reels. The Winn Dri-Tac material provides a superior grip, enhancing comfort and control during fishing. It’s a worthwhile investment for anglers seeking to improve their performance and reduce hand fatigue.
At a price of around $16, the Lew’s Custom Shop Standard Round Winn Knob offers excellent value for the money. It’s a small investment that can make a significant difference in your fishing experience. This is a rare example of simplicity improving an already well-engineered product.
I would personally recommend the Lew’s Custom Shop Standard Round Winn Knob to any angler who owns a compatible Lew’s reel and wants to upgrade their grip. Upgrade your fishing experience today with this simple, yet effective addition.