Review: Sonik VaderX RS Carp Reels

The Sonik VaderX RS Carp Reels come under the beady eye of the No.1 products inspector Richard Howard.

Sonik VaderX RS Carp Reels
(Image: © Angler's Mail)

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Sonik VaderX RS Carp Reels description: three big pit carp reels, one designed for spodding.

Specifications: 6000RS, 8000RS and 8000RS Spod sizes; Quick-Torque drag system; 6000RS and 8000RS models come with a spare anodised aluminium spool; twin spring-loaded captive line clips; 5+1 ball bearings; 4.1:1 gear ratio; graphite body and rotor; matt black finish; instant anti-reverse; micro adjustment, line lay washers; matt black, anodised aluminium handle; barrel-shaped wooden knob.

Spool capacities: 6000RS takes 200 m of 0.35 mm line; 8000RS 280 m of 0.35 mm; 8000RS Spod comes fully loaded with 200 m of 30 lb braid.

My verdict: these new VaderX RS reels were launched at the same time as Sonik’s VaderX RS rods, having been completely redesigned and updated. Sonik have told me that they are lighter, quicker and have improved line lay.

They have also added a Quick-Torque drag, which can be set from loose to tight in around half a turn. I’ve noticed that the spools are convexed, too, producing an even line lay for improve casting.

When I met them at the Carp Society Winter Show last November, the team at Sonik told me that the clips had been updated to ensure that they are not only line friendly, they were strong enough to deal with repeated spodding.

The 6000RS models look ideal for coupling with their range of shorter rods. The 8000RS Spod reels retrieve 1.1 m of line with every turn of the handle, and I like the fact that they come fully loaded with braid.

I think these reels are well priced, and their features have been well thought out. I expect them to sell well.

Price: £54.99.

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