Sonik are becoming well known in the Carp angling world in a positive way thanks to their quality gear at affordable prices. The Tournos range of reels is no exception, this is a great piece of kit that performs exceptionally for its price.
What Does This Mean?
When we assess the build quality of a fishing reel, we test and review the materials used in manufacturing the reel and how it all comes together in the finished product.
What Does This Mean?
This part of the review is fairly self-explanatory and focuses on how well the reel casts and how smooth the retrieve is.
Distance isn’t a factor in this assessment whereas accuracy and efficiency is.
On top of the actual, physical performance of the reel we also look at the number and type of ball bearings, the spool, line lay and the gear ratio in comparison to its required use.
What Does This Mean?
When reviewing the drag system on a fishing reel we are testing how smooth the drag is and how convenient it is to use.
There is no bias as to whether a reel has a front or rear drag system, it is solely judged on how smooth it can take out line relative to the amount of pressure that it is being applied.
What Does This Mean?
Self-explanatory in terms of an assessment but yet an important part of the review process. This is because it creates more of a level playing field.
Of course, the more expensive a reel is the more quality components it will have and as such will generally score higher.
Having value for money as a criterion allows us to judge how well a reel performs vs its price point and in turn allows us to recognise good-performing reels at bargain prices.
| Name | Overall Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Daiwa Tournament Basia 45 SCW QD | 9.1 | £613.99 |
| Shimano Ultegra 5500 XTD | 8.5 | £139.99 |
| Wychwood Riot Big Pit | 7.6 | £46.95 |
| Daiwa Emblem 35 SCW 5000c QD | 8.8 | £148.95 |
| Fox FX11 | 8.5 | £104.99 |
| Daiwa Emcast 25A | 8.1 | £109.99 |
| ESP Onyx Big Pit Reel | 8.3 | £119.99 |
| Daiwa Tournament 5000t | 9 | £358.95 |
| Shimano Power Aero 14000 XTC Reel | 9 | £406.49 |
| Sonik Tournos 8000 Reel | 7.9 | £99.99 |
| Features and Specs | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Gear Ratio: 4.9:1 | The spool turns 4.9 times for every one turn of the handle. This is average compared to similar reels. |
| Weight: 665g | This weight is heavier than the majority of its competition |
| Line Capacity: 0.35mm/260m | Offers sufficient line capacity for various fishing conditions. The total capacity is slightly less than its competitors |
| Retrieve Rate: Not specified | Not specified or tested |
| Drag System: Quick-Torque Drag | Allows for rapid and precise adjustment. Goes from full ock to fully free in just over half a turn |
| Number of Ball Bearings: Unconfirmed | The actual number of bearings hasn’t been confirmed by Sonik |
| Construction Material: High-Grade Carbon Composite Body and Rotor | Provides a lightweight yet strong and corrosion-resistant build, enhancing longevity and performance |
| Handle: QUIK-CLIK™ Folding Handle with Wooden Grip | Offers a comfortable and secure grip with the added convenience of a folding design for easy transport and storage |
| Anti-Reverse System: Infinite Anti-Reverse | Prevents the handle from moving backwards, ensuring better hook sets and increased control during the fight with the fish |
| Spool Type: Cast Aluminium Spool | Designed to enhance casting distance and accuracy by reducing friction and improving line flow |
| Bail Arm: Heavy Duty Bail Arm | Reduces line twist and ensures smooth line lay on the spool, improving overall reel performance |
| Special Features: Super-Slow Oscillation, Twin Spring-Loaded Line Clips, Dual Strength Stainless Steel Main Shaft, Floating Rotor Line Guard | Enhances line lay, reduces line wear, improves casting performance, and provides additional durability and control |
The Sonik Tournos 8000 Big Pit Reel boasts an impressive build quality that punches above its price point.
The high-strength carbon composite body and rotor provide a solid foundation, while the dual-strength stainless steel main shaft adds considerable durability to the overall construction.
However, it’s worth noting that at 673g, it’s on the heavier side compared to some premium big pit reels in the market. Despite this though, the weight is well-balanced and doesn’t detract from the overall performance.
Its all-black finish gives it a sleek, modern look that will appeal to many anglers, though some may prefer a bit more variety in its aesthetics.
The attention to detail is evident in features like the titanium-coated bail arm and the twin spring-loaded line clips, which add to both the reel’s durability and functionality.
Where the Tournos 8000 truly shines is in its casting capabilities. The long cast angled spool lip is a really useful feature that significantly reduces friction during the cast and helps to achieve those extra yards that can make all the difference.
This feature, combined with the super slow oscillation system, (which I love) ensures an immaculate line lay on the spool, which not only aids in casting distance but also helps prevent annoying tangles and fraps.
The retrieve is impressively smooth, thanks to the well-engineered internals and the 4.9:1 gear ratio. This ratio strikes a nice balance, offering a fairly fast retrieve without sacrificing power.
The worm drive system also contributes to the perfect line lay, further enhancing the reel’s casting performance.
An added bonus is the rotor lock system that engages when the bail arm is open, preventing those frustrating moments when the bail arm snaps shut mid-cast.
The Tournos 8000 features a front drag system which utilises the Quick Torque drag technology. For me this is a standout feature, allowing you to go from free spool to full drag in just over half a turn of the drag dial.
This rapid response has, at times, got me out of trouble and can sometimes make the difference between landing a fish or not.
The drag’s smoothness and responsiveness are impressive. Fine adjustments are easy to make, with even small tweaks making a noticeable difference.
This level of control is particularly useful when playing fish at close range, allowing you to apply just the right amount of pressure without overtightening.
At its price point, the Sonik Tournos 8000 offers exceptional value for money as it delivers performance and features that you’d typically expect to find in much more expensive reels.
The combination of casting ability, smooth retrieve, and responsive drag system makes it a versatile choice for a wide range of carp fishing scenarios.
The inclusion of two spools (one deep and one medium) adds to its versatility and value proposition.
While it may not have all the refinements of top-tier reels costing three or four times as much, it certainly holds its own and represents an excellent choice for anglers looking for high performance without breaking the bank.
Soniks official features & Specs: https://www.soniksports.com/product/tournos-xd-reels/
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