A well priced big pit reel

Big pit, matt black reels are just for the super rich, yes? Actually no. Our exposure to these types of reels has got our perspective all out of whack. Just because they’re eye-pleasing, have smooth clutches and a decent line clips doesn’t mean a set should bankrupt you. But here’s a reel that’s beautiful, ballsy, will match any of its wallet-crushing competitor when it comes to casting distances and it’s affordable. And it’s from SONIK.

Sorry, it’s from who?
Yep, that’s not a misprint. Earlier this year the northern-based company launched their first ever reel, the Tournos 8000 – a smaller version of what you see before you now – and production went into meltdown as sales exceeded production. It was an instance hit. That’s right, realign your perception of SONIK: it’s now not just an ace rod manufacturer, they’re clearly pretty damn handy with reels too. The 10000 has been developed based on this original, being given a slightly larger body to offer more winding power and a larger 48mm coned spool to improve casting distances.

Let’s cut straight to the chase: will it last?
There’s no reason why it shouldn’t, especially when you hear what materials have been used to actually make the thing. Plus, so far, SONIK haven’t had (a) any returns and (b) any unsatisfied customers – always a positive sign. To get a nice balance between weight (765g) and strength, SONIK have used a high strength carbon composite for the body and rotor and inside they’ve given it a dual strength stainless steel main shaft and equipped it with 8 + 1 stainless shielded bearings. On paper, it’s bulletproof. On the bank, so far, it’s bulletproof.

Sounds good. Give me some techy specs to throw about on the bank.
Well, for starters it comes with that ultra long cast angled spool which is worm-driven (that’s reel tech talk) which in our language means it produces perfect line lay. On top of that comes a powerful disc drag, rotor lock bail arm (which is titanium coated) so there’s no danger of it snapping shut mid-cast; a chunky, machined aluminium barrel-shaped handle provides extra comfort; and of course everything else you’d expect, basically – instant anti-reverse system and spring-loaded line clips (or which there’s two).

What’s the clutch like then?
It’s the bollocks. Whilst the rapid-drag system allows a total free spool model, within just over half-a-turn it’s back into actual fish playing model. It’s also one of a very few reels where the clutch can be completely screwed down so it’s totally locked it. Just ask Solar’s Martin Locke who’s been using them over at the mighty Rainbow in France. Surviving there means they’ll survive anywhere.

What’s the downside then?
Erm, we haven’t found one yet. Seriously. This reel delivers on all levels. It looks great and performs great. And it’s not like you’ve got to worry about hitting the monthly repayments when you hear the following offer SONIK are running: the Tournos 10000 retails for £199.99, but if you buy two, you get the third FREE! Three big pit, matt black reels, complete with two spools (one deep, one medium) a piece for just £399.98! Go on, get three, you and your rods deserve them.