Solar Tackle SP C-Tech Tackle Carryall System

How well is it built?

For me, the build is what sets this carryall apart, and the Vertabr8 construction is the heart of it. It's a rigid structure that holds the bag open and stops it collapsing, so it should stand square whether it's crammed with kit or half empty.

The walls are densely padded too, which gives the contents far more protection than a single layer of fabric, so reels and cases shouldn't get knocked about on the barrow.

Underneath, the moulded waterproof EVA base is about as tough a foundation as a carryall gets for wet ground and muddy barrows. The outer fabric is recycled G-Tex, finished in SolarCam digital camouflage, and the zipped lid carries its own waterproof pockets.

The flip side of all that is weight, as it comes in at 2.46kg before you've packed anything. Overall, though, the build is the reason to buy one, and I think it fully earns its 9.0.

Storage & Organisation

The main compartment is roomy and meant for the bigger items, while the outer pockets are spacious, zipped and padded, and they're sized for boxes and Solar Accessory Cases.

Because it all sits within Solar's System Modular Concept, the matching cases are made to fit together without wasted space.

Two vertical pockets take pop-ups and bottles, so a tub of hookbaits or a bottle of bait liquid stays upright, and under the lid there are mesh pouches as well as two waterproof pockets for clothing or paperwork.

That's a lot of separate homes for kit in one 60cm bag, and the lid pockets are a sensible place for a licence or a spare layer.

So, why not a higher score? It makes the most sense with Solar's own cases, and other brands' boxes may not fill the pockets as neatly. Overall, it's very well organised, particularly for anyone already using the Solar system.

Ease of Use

Getting at your kit should be easy, because the Vertabr8 frame holds the bag open rather than letting the sides fold in on what you're looking for. The padded outer pockets open on their own zips too, so you can grab an accessory case without lifting the main lid.

Carrying is the weaker side. You get carry handles and a removable AirStrap, which is self-ventilating and made to reduce shoulder fatigue and moisture, and that should help on a long walk.

Even so, the bag's own weight plus a full load of cases, bait and bottles will soon add up, and that's why it scores 8.0 for ease of use rather than higher.

On a barrow, the weight matters far less, and the rigid shape should sit well on the frame. Overall, it's easy to use once it's at the swim, but it isn't the carryall I'd choose for a long walk without wheels.

Is it good value for money?

There's no getting away from the price. It costs a good deal more than the Korda Compac Carryall or the Nash Subterfuge, and that's what holds the value score back.

You're paying for the Vertabr8 frame, the padded walls, the EVA base and the recycled G-Tex fabric, and to be fair, they're all real upgrades.

The Nash Subterfuge also has a rigid build and a waterproof base for much less, so the gap is harder to justify unless you want the extra padding and the Solar case fit.

If you already own Solar Accessory Cases, the sums look a lot better, and a bag this solid should last a good few seasons.

Overall, I'd recommend the SP C-Tech to carp anglers who barrow their kit to the swim, want a very tough, well-padded carryall and already use, or plan to use, Solar's modular cases. If value matters more, the Nash Subterfuge is the smarter buy.