ICAST 2014 Coverage

ICAST 2014 Coverage

Quantum Refines the PT Smoke

Date:	8/14/14
Location:	Orlando, FL
Admission:	Buyers & Press Only
Manufacturer:	Quantum
Reviewer:	Cal

Introduction: When Quantum debuted their original Smoke reel four years ago at ICAST 2010, it was their stepping stone to lighter, smaller reels with a greater mass appeal. This year, they redefine the popular line with some interesting advances.

Introducing the new Smoke Speed Freak from Quantum.

New Pinion Gear: Quantum has joined the "free floating" spool crowd with their new disengaging pinion gear design. This newly engineered feature allows the spool shaft to float freely during a cast for far less friction which translates to better casting distance and performance.

Slim Line ACS: Quantum takes a new look at their externally adjustable casting brake dial and slims things up pushing the panel in closer to the reel while at the same time, providing an even greater degree (250 degrees of rotation) of adjustment.

PT "X" Frame: A new frame design shaving away material at unnecessary places to help reduce weight yet increase strength. This is no doubt a trickle down effect from their EXO reels.

Removable Front Gear Side Hood: Making inspection and lubrication of the main gear a little more easy, Quantum introduces a removable hood at the front of the main gear.

The Smoke lineup receives a host of enhancements.

Speed Freak!: Quantum enters the new ultra-fast retrieve ratio market with a new, 8.1:1 gear ratio version of the Smoke dubbed "Speed Freak". This model will feature 10 BB + 1 RB, and then the same refinements as the standard reels in the new Smoke lineup.

One enhancement is a lower base price!

Standard Features: The standard Smoke reels will be available in 7.3:1 and 6.1:1 retrieve ratios, feature an aluminum frame, gear side plate and graphite non-handle side plate, 8 BB and 1 RB, the afore mentioned improved ACS external cast control, a micro tuned clicking tension knob for the spool, a new CSC PT drag system, and soft touch EVA knobs. The new forecasted weight is 6.7 ounces for the standard reels and 6.2 ounces for the Speed Freak.

New cosmetics all around including the spinning reels.

Smoke Spinning: Quantum has also revamped the Smoke Spinning reel to feature 10 BB and 1 RB, C4LF Carbon Fiber Rotor, a titanium bail wire, CSC PT Drag System, a soft touch EVA knob, and an aluminum frame and gear side cover plate. The Smoke Spinning will be available in a standard 5.2:1 gear ratio in sizes 25-50 and in 5.3:1 in size 15. There will also be a Speed Freak version featuring a 6.2:1 gear ratio in two sizes, the 25 and 30.

There's a Speed Freak in spinning too.

Smoke Rods: All the casting and spinning models in Quantum's Smoke rod lineup have been revamped for 2015. They now all feature Quantum's high strain yet light weight HSX70 blank construction, Fuji ACS and VSS reel seats, deep pressed Aluminum Oxide guides with stainless steel frames (sized small but not micro), EVA split grip rear handles, and a limited three year warranty.

Smoke rods also get a tune-up for 2015.

Line Memo: Quantum's new Patent Pending Line Weight Indicator will be featured on all Smoke rods. With a simple push of the spring loaded dial located at the butt end of the rod, anglers can adjust the indicator to show weight ranges from six to sixty five, reflective of what line is being used on the reel mounted on each rod.

The Line Memo feature allows you to set a reminder on each stick, of what pound test you have spooled on the reel.

Thanks to Bob Bagby for showing us the new Smoke lineup from Quantum!

Conclusion: The new smoke baitcasters will sell for an MSRP of $179 while the Speed Freak versions will sell for $199. Likewise for the spinning they will be $159 and $179 respectively. So Quantum has lowered the price of the standard models and brought the new Speed Freaks in at the same cost as the previous Smokes in casting and just $10 more in spinning. The Smoke Rods will sell for $139.99!