Since 25 September 2026
Reviewed
Sonik Xtractor+ Recon Rod 8ft
Lowest in-stock price
£56.99
from Total Fishing Tackle
Compared across 3 shops
, with 3 currently in stock
5 Things To Know
- RECON construction combines a double retractable butt section with a VARI-TAPER joint.
- The 8ft rod packs down to 76cm, or 30 inches, for transport.
- Its 3.00lb test curve is paired with a progressive XTRACTOR action.
- A 40mm to 12mm guide pattern includes M-SERIES DL black guides and an anti-frap ceramic tip ring.
- The rod has a slim Japanese shrink-rubber handle with a subtle flared grip.
Product Information
The Sonik Xtractor+ Recon Rod 8ft is a 3.00lb carp rod for all forms of carp fishing. RECON construction uses a double retractable butt section with a VARI-TAPER joint, letting this 8ft rod pack down to 76cm (30 inches).
Its updated high-modulus C6 carbon blank has a tough RAW-Carbon finish and the XTRACTOR action combines a slim, light feel with progressive power.
The longer handle and 40mm to 12mm guide pattern support casting and playing fish, with super-light M-SERIES DL black guides and an anti-frap ceramic tip ring.
A slim Japanese shrink-rubber handle has a subtle flared grip, while a deluxe matt-black DPS reel seat holds the reel. A custom contoured Sonik clip is line friendly, and the black anodised butt cap carries a laser-etched S logo.
Sonik Xtractor+ Recon Rod 8ft Review
Carp fishing often throws up scenarios that the bog standard 12ft rod is not suited for, tight swims and smaller venues being the obvious examples. The Sonik Xtractor+ Recon is a prime example of a rod built to satisfy those needs.
Carp anglers choose this rod for its shorter length, progressive action and solid build, which make it a great option for smaller venues or for roaming and stalking. It is also chosen for its exceptional value for money, because you get a lot of rod for your buck with the Xtractor+ Recon.
That makes it a very popular option for those on a budget, those looking for an affordable specialist rod, or even for children who need a decent rod that is shorter than the norm.
overall 7.3/10
Features 7.3/10
Appearance 7.3/10
Casting & Feel 7.0/10
Playing Fish 7.0/10
Value for money 8.0/10
Features
Recon means a double pack down. The rod has two retractable parts in the butt section, combined with Sonik's VARI-TAPER joint and a single one-piece tip, allowing for a longer handle and a quick transformation from a compact 30-inch (76cm) set-up to a full-length eight-foot rod.
That is the best of both worlds for convenience and performance. Add the updated high modulus C6 carbon, a ceramic anti-frap tip ring, a 40mm to 12mm ring pattern and a deluxe matt black DPS reel seat and you have a rod that has been designed with versatility in mind.
Appearance
Aesthetically these rods really are a treat for the eyes. The slim Japanese shrink handle, the RAW-carbon blank finish and the matt black DPS reel seat look sleek and stylish, and the black anodised butt cap with its laser-etched S logo finishes it off.
It does not just look the part, it performs exceptionally well for the money too.
How well does it cast and feel?
The 40mm butt ring and progressive power action provide a nice casting experience and give the angler confidence in their casts. The anti-frap tip helps enormously, as do the super-light M-Series DL guides, which are just small enough not to look out of place on the blank.
The DPS reel seat is one of the best I have used at this price point, and the longer handle on the Plus version aids both distance and comfort when casting. This is a rod that feels great in the hand.
How does it perform when playing fish?
The rod has a slightly unique taper where the sections join, delivering a nice progressive action both during casting and when playing a fish. It offers a satisfying playability and action.
Every rod in the Xtractor+ range is a progressive action rod, providing plenty of power to control hard-fighting fish without exerting excessive pressure on the hook-hold.
Is it good value for money?
In terms of affordability and performance, the Xtractor+ Recon is a fantastic option for carp anglers. It is evident that a lot of rod can be obtained for the asking price.
Sonik has listened to feedback and incorporated features like the full-length handle, enhancing both distance and comfort when casting. Its transport length of just 30 inches makes it easy to store and stow away, and ideal as a stalking rod or one to take on your travels.
An absolute bargain for the price it is sold at.
Pros
- Packs down to just 30 inches (76cm) thanks to the double retractable Recon butt
- The 40mm butt ring and anti-frap tip give it good casting ability
- It is a good-looking rod with a modern RAW-carbon style
- Longer handle aids distance and comfort when casting
- Great value for money
Cons
- Performance could be better around its balance and feel when casting and playing fish
- Only the 8ft 3lb version is available, so no 12ft option for bigger waters
Features and Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Rod length | 8ft / 2.40m |
| Test curve | 3.00lb |
| Transport length | 76cm / 30 inches |
| Blank | Updated high-modulus C6 carbon with RAW-Carbon finish |
| RECON construction | Double retractable butt section with VARI-TAPER joint |
| Action | Slim, light XTRACTOR action with progressive power |
| Guides | 40mm to 12mm pattern with super-light M-SERIES DL black guides |
| Tip ring | Hard-wearing anti-frap ceramic |
| Handle | Slim Japanese shrink rubber with subtle slim flared grip |
| Reel seat | Deluxe matt black DPS |
| Line clip | Custom contoured, line-friendly Sonik clip |
| Butt cap | Black anodised, laser etched with S logo |
How It Compares
See how the Sonik Xtractor+ Recon Rod 8ft compares with other carp rods on overall score and current price.
| Name | Price | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Sonik Xtractor+ Recon Rod 8ft | £56.99 | |
| Century Stealth Graphex Carp Rod | £595.00 | |
| Century Stealth Graphex Spod/Marker Rod | £595.00 | |
| Fox Horizon X3-S Carp Rod | £79.99 | |
| Fox Horizon X6 Ti 8-10ft Rod | £197.99 | |
| Daiwa Black Widow Plus Carp Rod | £44.99 | |
| Prologic Combat-Surface Shrink Rod | £49.99 | |
| Wychwood Extricator Cork MLT Stalking Rod | £37.99 | |
| Fox EOS X Telescopic Rod | £49.99 |
Price History
Tracked shop prices over time.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What length and test curve is this Sonik Recon rod?
It is 8ft / 2.40m with a 3.00lb test curve.
How short does this Sonik Recon rod pack down?
It packs down to 76cm, or 30 inches.
What joint construction does the Sonik Recon rod use?
RECON technology uses a double retractable butt section and a VARI-TAPER joint.
What guides are fitted to this Sonik Recon rod?
It has a 40mm to 12mm guide pattern, M-SERIES DL black guides and an anti-frap ceramic tip ring.
What reel seat does this Sonik Recon rod have?
It has a deluxe matt-black DPS reel seat.
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