Today, we will review the specs and features of Lew’s Mach Crush Baitcast Reel so that you can learn more about it and find out if it is for you. If you asked me for one fishing reel brand whose quality surpasses the rest of the competition, it would be Lew’s. Years ago, this company was better known for its ultralight gear, trout fishing, and fly fishing reels.
Today, Lew’s can play with the big boys like Daiwa and Shimano. I’ve used this reel extensively without any problems, thanks to its durability, comfortable design, and advanced technology.
This Lew’s Mach Crush Reel review is to help you understand what makes this low-profile orange baitcaster different and worth its “middle-of-the-road” price tag.
The Bottom Line – Lew’s Mach Crush
The Lew’s Mach Crush Reel offers precision, power, and affordability, making it an excellent choice for all anglers. With its sleek design and innovative features, this reel stands out in terms of performance and functionality.
One of the first things I noticed about this reel was the ridiculous casting distance. With 30–40 yards being the average distance, this reel easily hit 100+ with minimal effort.
Add in a top-of-the-line drag system, buttery smooth construction, and a durable frame, and you have one of the best reels on the market for less than $200.
Lew’s Mach Crush Baitcast Specs
Gear Ratio: 7.5:1
Mono Capacity: 110/12
Braid Capacity: 110/50
Weight: 7.3 oz
Max Drag: 20lbs
Check out the Lew’s Mach Crush reel here!
Features – Lew’s Mach Crush
Now let me break down some of the main features that make this reel so great:
10 Double Shielded Ball Bearings
I believe “more bearings” don’t always equal a smoother reel. That said, what causes bearings to break down over time is corrosion, dust, and debris getting inside the reel and burring your bearings.
With their double-shielded design, the bearings are well protected from debris, dirt, and water, thus extending their lifespan and maintaining their optimal performance for a longer time.
Combine that with the fact that you have a 9+1 reverse bearing setup, effortless casting, and a more enjoyable fishing experience when stacked up against a six- or seven-bearing reel.
One-Piece Graphite Frame
Having fewer breakable parts is preferable. Lew’s orange baitcaster uses lightweight and durable graphite, providing rigidity without extra weight. Weighing 7.3 ounces, it has the necessary backbone for larger fish. Additionally, graphite’s corrosion resistance suits both freshwater and saltwater fishing. The one-piece graphite frame improves performance and longevity.
Heck, I’ve seen even expensive ($250+) reels with one-piece aluminum frames. The Shimano Torium is an example. You’re getting top-of-the-line engineering here for a middle-of-the-road price.
Carbon Fiber Drag System
Experienced anglers seek reels with carbon fiber drag systems. Yet, few people grasp its true significance. Carbon fiber boasts a high strength-to-weight ratio, delivering proper tension without overweighting the reel.
Additionally, it’s naturally heat-resistant, enduring intense fights without washer wear. Consequently, this results in superior performance and longevity against large fish, no matter the reel’s use.
Sold Brass Speed Gears
The Lew’s Mach Crush reel features solid brass speed gears, which offer a variety of benefits. Brass is known for being tough and resistant, and the gears are also known for being smooth and consistent. The result is a soft cast and retrieval, which is likely why you get such a long casting distance with this reel.
Friction is the enemy in a fishing reel, and many factors can cause more friction than you’d like. When a reel lacks rigidity, it bends and flexes.
This causes the line to flow less evenly off the spool, resulting in tangling and poor casting. You shouldn’t have that problem with this reel.
Lew’s Mach Crush – Field Test
I recently visited Ford Pond in Dalton, Pennsylvania, to test Lew’s Mach Crush reel. It’s a small pond known for a pretty sweet bass population and quite a bit of catfish.
The line whispers off the spool with each cast, music to my ears. The smooth operation of the bearings results in a long and accurate cast beyond the dense vegetation around the perimeter.
Thanks to the solid brass speed gears, retrieving the line felt like silk sliding through my fingertips. The one-piece graphite frame provided a lightweight yet sturdy foundation, ensuring precise control with each wrist twitch.
This reel exceeded my expectations when I took it out on the water. I think it’s a great option for anglers who don’t have experience with bait casters. The reel’s smoothness and braking system make it a good choice for people transitioning from a spinning reel.
Model Breakdown
| Model | Gear Ratio | Mono Capacity (yards/lbs) | Max Drag (lbs) | Weight (oz) | Retrieve |
| MCR1SHA | 7.5:1 | 110/12 | 20 | 7.3 | Right |
| MCR1SHLA | 7.5:1 | 110/12 | 20 | 7.3 | Left |
***This reel only comes in two models, each with a different retrieval based on your handedness.
Pros
Buttery Smooth Retrieval: The high-quality double-shielded ball bearings provide a smooth retrieval and an overall great experience.
Exceptional Casting Distance: With its innovative design and precision engineering, Lew’s Orange Crush reel delivers exceptional casting distance.
Long-Term Durability: The one-piece graphite frame and solid brass speed gears ensure the reel can handle harsh conditions, providing reliable performance over extended periods of use.
Bang For Your Buck: While not the most affordable option, you get so much for your money. At around $160, you just can’t beat it.
Cons
Limited Models: You’re limited in gear ratios, line capacity, and drag features because it only comes in one model. The only variation you can get is a right or left-handed retrieval.
Final Thoughts
The Lew’s Mach Crush reel packs a serious punch and is worth further investigating. This reel has only been on the market for a few years, so there isn’t too much buzz, but wait till you start catching eyes with this bright orange reel next time you walk up to the lake.
I highly recommend checking out this reel to learn more.
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