Sonik Proguard Framed Cradle

How well is it built?

So, the first thing to say is that this is a proper framed cradle rather than a padded mat with walls. A black tubular frame holds the bed off the ground, and Sonik describe it as having well padded frame protection, so the rail around the edge is covered rather than bare.

The four legs lock with a lever clamp and sit on swivel mud feet, and in the photos they look solid and simple to adjust.

The frame folds up with the bed still fitted, which keeps setting up straightforward, and everything goes into a heavy-duty zipped carry bag with the Proguard logo on the front.

To be fair, Sonik don't list the materials or a weight, so I'm judging it on design rather than on a spec sheet.

Overall, I think it looks a well thought out cradle, and while it doesn't have the six-leg frame of the Trakker Sanctuary, it's a sturdy, sensible design for the money.

Protection

Protection is where the Proguard earns its place, and I think it's as good as most cradles that cost a fair bit more. The low-slung frame means there's only a short lift from the net or sling, yet the bed still keeps the fish off stones, gravel and uneven ground.

Padded sides run round the edge, and the fish-friendly lining gives the carp a soft bed while you unhook, weigh and take photos.

At 130 x 74cm assembled, there's plenty of room for most UK carp. Side drainage mesh lets water run out rather than pooling under the fish, and the secure top mesh flap closes over the cradle to keep a lively fish contained while you sort out forceps, scales or the camera.

So, how much does a top flap matter? For me, it matters a lot, because a covered fish tends to settle rather than kick. The Avid PRO-Tect Safeguard works on the same low-to-the-ground idea, and I'd rate the Proguard alongside it for fish care.

Ease of Setup & Portability

Is it a bit of a faff to set up? Not really, because you just unfold the frame, extend the legs and set the swivel mud feet to suit the ground.

On a sloping or soft swim, that levelling is what keeps the cradle steady when a carp kicks, and it's pretty much the routine you'd expect from any framed cradle on adjustable legs, with nothing to pump up.

Carrying it is the bigger compromise. It packs down to 74 x 67 x 16cm and goes into its zipped carry bag, which is flat enough for a barrow or a car boot, but it's still a large item to lug about.

The Prologic Avenger packs a little smaller, and the Sonik Xtractor zips down small enough to clip onto a rucksack.

Sonik don't give a weight, so I can't compare it on that, but overall I think it suits anglers who barrow into a swim and stay put rather than those who move every few hours.

Is it good value for money?

So, is it worth the money?

I think it is, because the Proguard sits in the middle of the framed cradle market and costs a good deal less than the Avid PRO-Tect Safeguard and the Trakker Sanctuary, yet you still get a padded frame, levelling legs with mud feet, a top mesh flap, side drainage and a heavy-duty bag.

The Trakker is the more premium cradle with its six-leg frame, and the Avid follows a similar low design, but for me the Proguard gets you most of the way there for a lot less outlay.

If you'd rather carry something smaller, the Sonik Xtractor Folding Cradle costs less again, although it has no frame or legs.

Overall, I'd recommend the Proguard to carp anglers who fish sessions from one swim and want a properly padded framed cradle with low, level handling, without spending top-end money to get it.