**Kylebooker Lot 36, Dyed Dark Blue India Rooster Streamer Neck Cape Feathers for Fly Tying: A Review on Value for Money**
As an avid fly fisherman, I’m always on the lookout for high-quality materials that won’t break the bank. Recently, I came across the **Kylebooker Lot 36, Dyed Dark Blue India Rooster Streamer Neck Cape Feathers for Fly Tying**, and after testing them extensively, I’m ready to share my thoughts on their performance, quality, and overall value.
### **First Impressions**
The feathers arrived in a well-packaged lot, labeled clearly as 36 pieces of dyed dark blue rooster neck cape feathers. The color was vibrant and consistent across all feathers, which is crucial for creating visually appealing streamers. The size of the feathers was uniform, making them ideal for tying medium to large streamers, such as Woolly Buggers or Zonkers.
### **Quality Assessment**
1. **Dye Quality**: The dark blue dye was rich and evenly distributed, with no visible blotches or fading. Even after soaking the feathers in water (to test for bleeding), the color held up remarkably well. This is a big plus, as poorly dyed feathers can ruin a fly after a few casts.
2. **Barb Integrity**: Each feather had sturdy, flexible barbs that didn’t break easily when handled. This is essential for durability, especially when tying flies that need to withstand aggressive strikes.
3. **Natural Texture**: Despite being dyed, the feathers retained their natural stiffness and sheen, which helps in creating lifelike movement in the water.
### **Performance in Fly Tying**
I tied several patterns using these feathers, including:
– **Woolly Buggers**: The long, flowing fibers worked perfectly for tails and collars.
– **Clouser Minnows**: The feathers provided excellent bulk without being too stiff.
– **Zonker Strips**: The uniformity in size made cutting and tying them effortless.
The feathers held up well under thread tension, and their slight natural curve helped in achieving a realistic profile. Unlike cheaper alternatives, these didn’t fray excessively when trimmed.
### **Price vs. Competitors**
At around **$15–$20 per lot** (depending on the seller), the Kylebooker feathers are competitively priced compared to other dyed capes on the market. While premium brands like Whiting or Metz may offer slightly better consistency, they often cost **2–3 times more**. For budget-conscious tiers who still want reliable quality, this product strikes a great balance.
### **Potential Drawbacks**
– **Limited Color Options**: The dark blue is stunning, but if you need other shades, you’ll need to look elsewhere.
– **Smaller Quantity**: Some bulk suppliers offer larger lots (50+ feathers), so if you tie in high volume, this might not be the most economical choice.
### **Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?**
Absolutely. The **Kylebooker Lot 36** provides excellent value for fly tiers who want vibrant, durable feathers without overspending. While they may not replace high-end genetic hackles for dry flies, they’re a fantastic option for streamers and wet flies.
**Rating: 4.5/5**
– **Pros**: Vibrant color, good barb strength, fair pricing.
– **Cons**: Limited color range, not the largest quantity per pack.
If you’re looking for reliable, budget-friendly feathers for streamer tying, this product is a solid investment. Tight lines!
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