Graco Magnum LTS 15 (Model 257060) has become the go‑to airless paint sprayer for homeowners who want professional results without the pro‑level price tag. Outfitted with a 3/8‑horsepower motor that produces up to 2,800 PSI and a flow rate of 0.24 GPM, this machine effortlessly atomizes everything from interior latex to exterior stains while remaining compact and portable.
Key Specifications at a Glance
- Max Pressure: 2,800 PSI
- Flow Rate: 0.24 GPM
- Max Tip Size: 0.015 in.
- Annual Recommendation: up to 125 gal/year
- Included Hose Length: 25 ft (supports up to 75 ft)
- Spray Gun: SG2 metal gun with in‑handle filter
These specs mirror the well‑known Magnum X5; the LTS line is sold exclusively through Lowe’s, giving DIYers identical performance for a lower shelf price.
Stand‑Out Features Homeowners Love
1. Fully Adjustable Pressure Control
Dial in the perfect spray pattern for thick elastomeric coatings or thin wood stains with Graco’s variable‑pressure knob. Fine‑tuning pressure reduces overspray, stretches paint budget, and keeps cleanup minimal.
2. Flexible Suction Tube
Skip constant refills attach the tube straight into any one‑ or five‑gallon bucket and spray continuously until empty. This feature alone can shave hours off big siding or deck projects.
3. RAC IV 515 Reversible Tip
A quick quarter‑turn clears clogs mid‑stroke, keeping your workflow smooth and streak‑free. The 0.015‑in. orifice delivers an ideal 12‑inch fan for walls and broad surfaces, while affordable RAC IV fine‑finish tips expand capability to cabinets or trim.
4. PowerFlush Adapter
Connect a standard garden hose and blast residual paint from pump, gun, and hose in mere minutes an enormous time‑saver versus manual bucket cycling.
5. Lightweight Stand Design
At just 16.5 lbs, the LTS 15 can be carried in one hand, freeing the other for hose management when climbing ladders or moving around furniture.
Paint Compatibility
The LTS 15 sprays latex, acrylics, enamels, primers, and oil‑based paints or stains with equal finesse as long as material flash point exceeds 100 °F. Simply strain coatings to remove debris and select the correct tip size per Graco’s chart.
Pros & Cons Summary
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Pro‑grade specs at DIY price | Not rated for heavy contractor use (>125 gal/yr) |
| Rapid cleanup via PowerFlush | Initial masking still required to contain overspray |
| Wide tip and hose compatibility | No cart wheels; must be carried |
| Excellent support & parts availability | Learning curve for first‑time sprayers |
Who Should Buy the Magnum LTS 15?
If you are a homeowner tackling everything from rental turnovers to fence restoration, the LTS 15 offers the sweet spot of power, capacity, and affordability. Those who spray weekly or plan to run thicker elastomeric roof coatings should consider moving up to the LTS 17 or ProLTS 19 lines, but for occasional high‑volume projects (up to 125 gallons a year) this model is all you need.
Expert Setup & Usage Tips
- Strain, strain, strain: Use a fine mesh filter to protect gun screens and prolong tip life.
- Prime correctly: Follow the manual’s priming procedure to purge air before triggering the gun skipping this step is the #1 cause of spitting and pressure fluctuation.
- Start at 50% pressure: Increase only until tails disappear; excessive PSI wastes paint.
- Maintain 10–12 in. standoff: Move your arm not your wrist for consistent overlap.
- Flush instantly after use: Dry paint inside pump can destroy packings in a single day.
Maintenance & Parts Availability
Because the LTS series shares components with the popular X‑series, replacement packings, pumps, and gun filters are stocked by most paint‑supply retailers and big‑box chains. Portland Compressor’s cross‑reference guide lists every compatible part number, making DIY repairs straightforward and wallet‑friendly.
Final Verdict
Graco Magnum LTS 15 Model 257060 is a powerhouse disguised as a weekend warrior’s tool. It brings contractor‑level output into the residential garage, slices project timelines to a fraction, and produces a finish that rivals factory spraying all while keeping maintenance and ownership costs low. Pair it with Graco RAC IV tips, a 50‑ft DuraFlex hose, and Pump Armor for storage, and you’ll enjoy years of flawless spraying across every DIY project on your list.
