Vintage Fly Tying Vice
Nick Whelan 
# **Kylebooker Vintage Fly Tying Vice: Is It Worth the Money?**
For fly fishing enthusiasts, having a reliable fly tying vice is essential for crafting high-quality flies. The **Kylebooker Vintage Fly Tying Vice** has gained attention among anglers for its classic design and affordability. But does it offer good value for money? In this review, we’ll examine its features, performance, and overall cost-effectiveness to help you decide if it’s the right tool for your fly-tying needs.
## **Design and Build Quality**
The **Kylebooker Vintage Fly Tying Vice** boasts a traditional, all-metal construction, which ensures durability and stability during use. Unlike some modern plastic or lightweight vices, this model has a solid feel, reducing vibrations when tying delicate patterns. The vice features a **cam-operated rotary function**, allowing for smooth 360-degree rotation—an important feature for checking symmetry and applying materials evenly.
One notable aspect of its design is the **adjustable tension system**, which accommodates hooks of various sizes, from small dry flies to larger streamers. The jaws are designed to hold hooks securely without damaging them, a crucial factor for precision work.
## **Ease of Use**
For beginners, a user-friendly vice can make a big difference in the learning curve. The **Kylebooker Vintage Vice** is relatively simple to set up and adjust. The rotary mechanism operates smoothly, and the **adjustable clamp** allows for easy attachment to different work surfaces. However, some users have noted that the **thread tension adjustment** could be more refined, as it may require occasional readjustment during prolonged tying sessions.
## **Performance and Versatility**
When it comes to performance, this vice holds up well for most standard fly patterns. The **rotary function** is particularly useful for wrapping materials evenly, and the **strong jaw grip** prevents hooks from slipping. However, if you frequently tie very small flies (size 20 and below), you might find that the jaws could be more precise.
Compared to high-end brands like **Renzetti or Regal**, the **Kylebooker Vintage Vice** lacks some of the ultra-fine adjustments and premium materials. However, for its price range, it performs admirably and is a solid choice for intermediate tyers or those on a budget.
## **Price and Value for Money**
The biggest selling point of the **Kylebooker Vintage Fly Tying Vice** is its **affordability**. While premium vices can cost **$200 or more**, this model is priced significantly lower, making it an attractive option for anglers who want a functional rotary vice without breaking the bank.
Given its **durability, rotary capability, and solid hook-holding power**, it offers **good value for money**, especially for hobbyists or those who don’t tie flies professionally. If you’re just starting out or need a reliable backup vice, this is a strong contender.
## **Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?**
### **Pros:**
**Affordable** compared to high-end vices
**Durable all-metal construction**
**Rotary function** for better fly symmetry
**Adjustable tension** for different hook sizes
### **Cons:**
**Jaws could be more precise for tiny hooks**
**Thread tension adjustment needs occasional tweaking**
### **Who Is It Best For?**
– **Beginners** looking for an affordable rotary vice
– **Intermediate fly tyers** who need a reliable secondary vice
– **Budget-conscious anglers** who want good performance without premium costs
### **Who Should Look Elsewhere?**
– **Professional fly tyers** who need ultra-precise adjustments
– **Anglers tying extremely small flies** (size 20 and below)
### **Conclusion**
The **Kylebooker Vintage Fly Tying Vice** is a **cost-effective** option that delivers solid performance for its price. While it may not match the precision of top-tier vices, it’s a great choice for anglers who want a functional, rotary-equipped tool without a hefty investment. If you’re looking for **good value without sacrificing essential features**, this vice is definitely worth considering.
Would you try the **Kylebooker Vintage Fly Tying Vice**? Let us know your thoughts in the comments! 