Sonik Vader compact freespool reels

Sonik Sports continues to widen its hugely popular Vader range of carping hardware with the launch of two new compact freespool reels. 

Get hands on these at this year’s The Big One Show

Just the job for targeting small to medium-sized venues or ‘runs waters’, the reels come in two sizes (5000 and 6000). They weigh 430g and 435g, and boast a micro-adjustable front drag and an independent freespool rear drag adjustment.

Build quality is impressive. The reels are made from a light but hardwearing graphite material (with a stainless steel main shaft), and come with solid aluminium handles, oversized line-friendly line clips and two anodised aluminium spools. 

With a gear ratio of 5.5:1, there’s no lack of cranking power either.

Having used both reels teamed with Sonik’s Specialist Barbel rods to great effect on the River Trent, I can vouch for their reliability and solid performance.

For me, the larger 6000 model just gets the nod between the two, as its larger, wider spool is suited to heavier lines. 

It also has slightly more cranking power, very handy when retrieving heavy leads and swimfeeders at long range. 

The clutch adjustment on the front of the spool, and the tension settings for the freespool facility, are functional rather than precise, but they won’t let you down. All-black aesthetics and understated graphics give these Soniks a classy look, and for the asking price you won’t find a better reel anywhere.

www.soniksports.com

Price: £49.99