Reviewed
Sonik Vader X 8000 RS Spod Reel
5 Things To Know
- A strong-value spod reel supplied with 200m of 30lb braid, making it a ready-to-use option for baiting work.
- The 1.1m retrieve per handle turn helps reduce effort when repeatedly winding in empty spods or spombs.
- Twin spring-loaded captive line clips are useful if you regularly bait two different spots.
- The graphite body and rotor keep the reel relatively light while still feeling suitable for regular spod work.
- Quick-Torque drag is handy if you also use the reel for marker work or occasional fishing duties.
Sonik Vader X 8000 RS Spod Reel Review
The Sonik Vader range of carp fishing gear has a great reputation of being excellent value for money whilst doing exactly the job its made for.
Build quality 7.5/10
Cast and retrieve 7.0/10
Drag / clutch 7.0/10
Value for money 9.0/10
How well is the Sonik Vader X 8000 RS Spod Reel built?
The overall build quality of the 8000 RS is designed to withstand the rigours of intensive use you get from spodding. The body and the rotor is made from graphite which is pretty standard as reels go but this does ensure the durability of the reel is good whilst keeping it low in weight at 622g.
The reel's sleek matte black finish gives it a modern and stylish look whilst the wooden barrel knob adds a touch of uniqueness to it. Overall the build of the reel combines aesthetics with functionality really well.
How well does it cast and retrieve?
With a gear ratio of 4.1:1, the Vader X 8000 RS Spod Reel offers a decent retrieval rate but one that does fall short with its more premium competitors. This doesn't make a huge difference but it does take a few more winds to retrieve the spod fully.
The spool design, combined with the oversized twist-free line roller, does ensure casting is smooth, while the twin spring-loaded captive line clips do the job nicely and hold solid even with a significant over cast.
How useful is the drag system?
The Vader X 8000 features a quick-torque drag system which is rare to see on a budget type reel. It can be adjusted from loose to tight in just half a turn which can be really useful when doubling up the reel for some marker work or even fishing with it if needs be.
Is it good value for money?
With a price point of around £50 this reel offers fantastic value for money so much so that it is featured as our best budget spod reel in our full guide.
Okay so its not the best on the market but for the money it performs above its value and is a great option for beginners to the sport or maybe as a backup for those anglers that like to be super prepared.
Pros
- Durable and lightweight graphite body
- Smooth and responsive Quick-Torque drag system
- Pre-loaded with 200 meters of 30lb braid
- Sleek and modern design
- Excellent value for money
Cons
- Slower retrieval rate than its competitors
- Other options have a spool with a greater line capacity
Features and Specifications
| Feature | What this means |
|---|---|
| Gear Ratio | 4.1:1, providing a retrieval rate of 1.1 metres per handle turn |
| Line Capacity | 0.30mm/370m, 0.35mm/280m, 0.40mm/220m, suitable for various fishing needs |
| Ball Bearings | 5+1 ball bearings which is great for a smooth retrieve |
| Drag System | Quick-Torque drag system for fast and precise adjustments |
| Line Clips | Twin spring-loaded captive line clips which helps to bait up more than one spot |
| Handle | Matt black anodised aluminium handle with a unique looking wood barrel knob |
| Weight | 620g, which is an average amongst top spod reels |
| Body Material | Graphite body and rotor for strength and durability |
| Pre-loaded Line | Supplied with 200 metres of 30lb braid, ready for use |
How It Compares
See how the Sonik Vader X 8000 RS Spod Reel compares with other carp reels on overall score and current price.
| Name | Price | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Sonik Vader X 8000 RS Spod Reel | £44.99 | |
| Daiwa 20 Crosscast Spod Reel | £129.99 | |
| Shimano Aerlex XTC Spod Reel 14000 | £105.00 | |
| Okuma 8K Carp Reel | £73.99 | |
| Daiwa 20 GS BR LT Reel | £89.99 | |
| Sonik SK-47 Carbon Reel | £53.46 | |
| Sonik Turbospod Reel 14000 | £74.99 | |
| Avid Carp Revolve FS Reel | £50.39 | |
| Mitchell Mx1 Fs Reel Pre-Spooled | £29.39 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Sonik Vader X 8000 RS Spod Reel best used for?
It is best suited to spod and marker work where accurate repeated casting, fast line retrieval and reliable clipping up matter more than general-purpose reel versatility.
How fast does the Sonik Vader X 8000 RS Spod Reel retrieve line?
4.1:1, providing a retrieval rate of 1.1 metres per handle turn
Does it have line clips for accurate spodding?
Yes. It has twin line clips, which are useful when you want to work accurately at two different spots or distances.
Does the Sonik Vader X 8000 RS Spod Reel come pre-loaded with braid?
Supplied with 200 metres of 30lb braid, ready for use
Is the fast drag system useful on a spod reel?
Yes. A fast drag system helps when switching between casting, clipping up and controlled line release during marker work.
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