Lamson Litespeed F
In Stock • Bozeman, MT
- Ultra Large Arbor Format
- Lightest yet largest diameter Litespeed to date
- Space frame construction – Exceptional Strength-to-Weight Ratio
- Re-engineered seals – Enhanced reliability and waterproofing
- Indexing click drag knob
Description
The LSF is the freshwater version of the new Litespeed. The chassis is based on the conical system found in our other reels with the addition of a click stop drag knob and a unique spring set that creates a linear progression of torque with very fine resolution at the light end of its range. LSF spool and frame architecture is super-arbor in scale for high retrieve, but spare and open to promote line drying and, of course, reduce weight.
Technology
CONICAL DRAG
We set out to engineer the best drag system possible: Zero start-up torque with adequate range. Smooth operation. Sealed from the environment. Reliable and maintenance free. Plus compact, light and technically simple. No sweat, right? We imagined a mechanical solution for a reel that probably seems obvious today: storing line on a large-circumference spool supported by a lightweight frame. But typical drag systems of the time were based on flat counter-rotating discs. Counterproductive. It occurred to us that the same surface area of discs could be configured into a pair of matched cones machined with angular precision. This resulted in a significant reduction in the diameter of the assembly, making it small, light and easy to seal. We also found proprietary friction materials that produced
POWER ARM
Due to our proprietary conical drag, we set out to develop a distinct and efficient frame. The Power Arm frame design is a way of aligning the structural support for the spool along the primary load path. The primary load path for any fly reel runs from the center of the drag core to the reel foot. It’s logical to put most of the material along that load path. Any distribution of material not aligned with the primary load path will result in either a structure that’s too flexible—or heavier than it needs to be. The Power Arm design uses the least amount of material to achieve the maximum stiffness.
INTEGRATED COUNTERBALANCE
Another structural theme built into our reels: integrated counterbalance. Why hang a piece of hardware on a spool if there’s a simpler way? But simple isn’t always easier. Our earliest spools required a fair amount of trial and error to build the precise bias into the spool to counter the weight of the spin knob. For us, the elegance of eliminating a component and then using the resultant asymmetry as part of the design made all the effort worth it. This simple, logical, but often difficult feature became essential to the personality of our reels.
Specifications
| Model | Line Weight | Weight | Diameter | Width | Backing Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Litespeed F -3+ | 2–4 wt | 3.4 oz | 3.50" | 0.90" | WF4 + 75 yds 20 lb backing |
| Litespeed F -5+ | 4–6 wt | 3.6 oz | 3.75" | 1.00" | WF6 + 125 yds 20 lb backing |
| Litespeed F -7+ | 6–8 wt | 4.4 oz | 4.00" | 1.00" | WF8 + 180 yds 20 lb backing |
Size Chart
| Target Species | Recommended Model | Line Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Small Trout & Panfish | -3+ | 2–4 wt |
| All-Around Trout | -5+ | 4–6 wt |
| All-Around Trout, Streamers & Stillwater | -5+, -7+ | 5–8 wt |
| Bass | -7+ | 6–8 wt |
| Carp | -7+ | 6–8 wt |
| Trout Spey & Light Steelhead | -7+ | 7–8 wt |
FAQ
Who Is the Lamson Litespeed F For?
The Litespeed F is built for anglers who want one of the lightest, highest-performing freshwater reels available. It combines Lamson's proven sealed conical drag with an aggressively machined frame that minimizes weight without sacrificing strength. For anglers who spend long days casting dry flies, nymphs, or streamers, the reduced weight becomes noticeable over the course of a day on the water.
It's an excellent choice for dedicated trout anglers who appreciate premium machining, modern engineering, and a reel that balances exceptionally well on today's lightweight fly rods.
How Does the Litespeed F Compare to Other Lamson Reels?
The Litespeed F sits near the top of Lamson's freshwater lineup. Compared to the Guru S, it is lighter, more extensively machined, and places a greater emphasis on maximizing strength while minimizing weight. Compared to the Speedster S, it sacrifices a small amount of retrieve speed in favor of an even lighter, more open-frame design.
If the Guru S represents Lamson's best all-around value, the Litespeed F is the reel for anglers who prioritize weight savings and premium machining above all else.
Can the Litespeed F Be Used in Saltwater?
Yes. While the Litespeed F was designed primarily as a freshwater reel, its fully sealed conical drag and corrosion-resistant anodized construction make it perfectly capable of handling occasional saltwater use. The 7+ is an excellent choice for bonefish and redfish, provided the reel is rinsed thoroughly after each trip.
What Are the Downsides of the Lamson Litespeed F?
The biggest downside is price. The Litespeed F is one of Lamson's premium freshwater reels, and anglers can find excellent performance from the Guru S or Liquid S at a considerably lower price.
Its aggressively machined frame also reflects its intended use. While it's remarkably strong for its weight, anglers who routinely subject their gear to heavy abuse or regularly fish harsh saltwater environments may prefer a reel with a more robust frame designed specifically for those conditions.
It is also manufactured overseas, so if you want a "Made in the USA" reel, consider a Hatch, Abel, Galvan, or Ross.
Warranty
Our lifetime warranty is valid for any defect in material or workmanship for the original owner of a reel or rod. This warranty applies to parts and labor, but doesn’t cover damage due to misuse, improper maintenance, or modification. This warranty is limited to repair or replacement at our discretion, and repair parts or colors might not match the original reel. Put it back in our hands. We’ll get you a quick fix, so that you can get right back on the water.
Product Video
