Lews BB1 vs speed spool. What's the difference?

[natalex85]

I have not found a good explanation of what distinguishes them from one another.

Applications, mechanism, etc. All information and opinions are appreciated.

[CaptBob]

Lews makes many speed spool reels, if it is a baitcast reel with Lew's on it, it is a speed spool. I will take it you are referring to the small frame reels, and the BB1and Super Duty, medium framed reels, Most all of the Tournament and Team reels are are small frame, the BB1 series and the Super Duty are medium framed reels. The BB1 incorporates a larger deeper and heavier spool than the Toury, Tourny Pro, and Team reels, this larger heavier spool takes more to get it spinning but once it starts spinning it keeps it's inertia going because of weight like a flywheel, while the larger frame it also set's the line guide farther forward from the spool and creates less drag from the line running through it from side to side. The BB1's Centrifugal only brake also differs from the other speed spool reels, as it is a 4 pin automatic assisted with 2 more fully manual pins for a total of 6, except the Pro which is an externally adjustable 6 pin which is variable adjustable from zero progressively increasing to 27 with a simple dial much like a Magnetic brake. I feel the BB1 is at its best with 3/8 and heavier lures, as it takes more to get it's spool rpm's up, but once the rpm's are up as long as the lure has enough momentum and wind resistance to keep up, it will cast unbelievable distances with little effort. The shallower drilled lighter spools one the other smaller frame reels will cast admirably with a lure lighter than 1/4 oz. and this is about the only time casting distance will top the BB1. The BB1 also now is multi anti reverse for all reel gear ratios,while the BB1Z is Multi anti reverse for all gear ratio's. This Lynn Reeves new version of the BB1 in its introduction was only Multi stop anti reverse for the 5.1:1, but that changed with the BB1Z series.

[natalex85]

thank you very much!