Xtractor Fans

In the wake of the Covid 19 outbreak back in 2020, supply chains across the world juddered to a halt. When things slowly got moving again, tackle companies (and everyone else) found the cost of shipping containers had risen 10 fold, helping to push prices up. Nearly three years on, that cost at least has dropped back down—and it looks like Sonik are passing on the savings to customers if this new line-up of short rods and smaller reels is anything to go by… 

I spy rods and reels here, which one first?
Let’s start with the rods. The Xtractor Pros are a new collection for this year that sit at the top of Sonik’s retractable-butt-section ranges, but with prices that are as keen as ever.

Ah, so they’re ‘part-telescopic’?
Yep, the butt section extends and retracts making for a shorter pack down size and the rods themselves are available in 9ft and 10ft options. 

Hit me with the science…
Okay, each blank is made from high-modulus carbon from Toray, one of the world’s leading carbon producers. There’s a ‘Lite-ply’ 1k armoured carbon weave throughout and the tip section features multi-directional laying of the carbon to prevent twist and torque to improve power and accuracy. You get lightweight guides with anti-frap tip rings, secure DPS reel seats and anodised butt caps laser etched with Sonik’s ‘S’ logo. They really are up there as the best-looking and performing retracting rods we’ve trailed. 

How big’s the range?
There are three 9ft rods with test curves of 2.75lb, 3lb and 3.25lb; and three 10-footers with test curves of 3lb, 3.25lb and 3.5lb. All models with test curves of 3.25lb and above feature 50mm butt guides.

Is that cork I spy?
Yes, there are cork versions of all those rods, bar the 9ft 2.75lb option. The cork handle does add a bit of cost, but prices start at just £99.99 and rise to only £129.99 across the range. 

What are the reels all about, then?
Sonik have seen the popularity of their previous gold-spool Xtractor 5000 GS model and introduced a Pro version, with a few more features for a few more pounds and pence. Boasting much more line capacity, the Xtractor Pro 5000 GS is hugely capable without being bulky—perfect for the shorter rods seen right here. It can hold 310m of 0.35mm line yet weighs a relatively light 445g. 

What other features does it have?
This reel is designed to perform as good as it looks, so aside from that winning combination of gold spool and wooden handle knob, it’s got the brains to back up the beauty. There are five internal ball bearings, a ‘Quick-Clik’ folding handle, an oversized twist-reducing line roller and a 4.7:1 gear ratio. It also has Sonik’s Quick-Torque drag system to go from free running to locked up swiftly and there are two spring-loaded line clips on the spool.

And the cost?
Given what I’ve just outlined, it’s got a measly recommended retail price of £64.99.