Stonfo Double Retractor review

What is the Stonfo Double Retractor?

The Stonfo Double Retractor (or Botton Service Doppio to give the product its formal Italian name) is a coiled zinger-style retractor that lets you attach two tools to the front of your jacket, vest or pack. By pulling the tool, the coiled zinger can be stretched allowing you to use your nippers or forceps without the need to disconnect them and risk losing them.

How do you attach it?

There's a safety pin on the back of the retractor to let you attach it to your jacket, vest or pack. This will make a couple of pinholes, of course, but some waders and vests are fitted with special thickened patches of material to let you attach similar clips without harming the fabric. For added security, I would recommend that you put a dollop of superglue or UV resin on the closing mechanism to ensure it doesn't pop open if you catch it. On some other retractors with a pin attachment, they can fall off if you catch them.

How do you attach your tools?

The tools of your choice are attached using the sturdy wire clips on the base of the retractors. These are basically heavy duty lure clips, so are capable of holding hefty weights and are secure and easy to open. It also incorporates a tiny fly patch to dry and store wet flies before you put them back in your box.

How long are the retractors?

The Stonfo Botton Service Doppio uses springy coiled plastic retractors, which look a bit like old-fashioned telephone cables (if you're old enough to remember what they look like). Stonfo says they extend to 35cm, but I was a bit apprehensive about pulling them much beyond 15-20cm for fear of inadvertently pulling them out. They stretch well and spring back into the retractor housing very neatly, so the tools don't dangle around too much.

What's it like to use?

This double retractor is a neat way of carrying a couple of small tools, like a pair of nippers and some forceps. It's easy to attach, seems fairly secure and is nice and light. The retractors are springy enough to hold up tools without them dangling around and there's even a little fly patch on the front, too.

How much does this retractor cost?

The Stonfo Botton Service Doppio costs around £15. It's strong, lightweight, well made and is a neat and compact way of securing two small tools so they're ready for use.

More information: Stonfo