Short Hackles – Red cock hackles – Fly tying materials
Steve Kerr 
**Kylebooker Short Hackles – Red Cock Hackles – Fly Tying Materials: Are They Worth the Price?**
For fly-tying enthusiasts, finding high-quality materials at a reasonable price is always a priority. One product that has recently caught the attention of many anglers is the **Kylebooker Short Hackles – Red Cock Hackles**. These hackles are marketed as premium fly-tying materials, but how do they really perform in terms of quality, durability, and overall value? In this review, we鈥檒l take a closer look at whether these hackles live up to expectations.
### **Quality and Appearance**
The first thing that stands out about the **Kylebooker Red Cock Hackles** is their vibrant color. The deep, rich red hue is consistent across the feathers, making them ideal for creating eye-catching flies. Unlike some lower-grade hackles, these feathers are free from discoloration or uneven dye jobs, which is crucial for professional-looking flies.
The hackles are also relatively stiff, a key characteristic for dry flies. Stiffer hackles help keep the fly afloat by trapping air bubbles, and the Kylebooker feathers perform well in this regard. Additionally, the barbs are uniform in length, which makes them easier to work with when wrapping around the hook.
### **Durability and Handling**
One concern with cheaper hackles is that they may break or fray easily during the tying process. Fortunately, the **Kylebooker Short Hackles** hold up well under tension. The stems are flexible yet strong, reducing the risk of snapping when wrapped tightly. This durability ensures that even beginners can use them without excessive waste.
Another advantage is their size consistency. Since these are marketed as “short” hackles, they are particularly suitable for smaller flies (sizes 12-18). If you frequently tie midge or nymph patterns, these hackles will be a great fit. However, if you need longer fibers for larger streamers, you might want to look for a different product.
### **Price and Value for Money**
The biggest question for many anglers is whether these hackles offer good **value for money**. Compared to well-known brands like Whiting or Metz, the **Kylebooker hackles** are priced more affordably. While they may not have the same level of prestige, they deliver solid performance at a fraction of the cost.
A typical package contains enough feathers for dozens of flies, making them a cost-effective choice for both hobbyists and commercial tiers. If you鈥檙e on a budget but still want decent quality, these hackles are a strong contender.
### **Potential Drawbacks**
No product is perfect, and there are a couple of minor issues to consider:
1. **Limited Size Range** 鈥?As mentioned, these are short hackles, so they may not be ideal for larger patterns.
2. **Slight Variation in Stiffness** 鈥?While most feathers are stiff enough for dry flies, a few may be slightly softer, requiring extra care when tying.
### **Final Verdict**
Overall, the **Kylebooker Short Hackles – Red Cock Hackles** offer excellent **value for money**. They provide good color retention, durability, and ease of use, making them a solid choice for fly tiers who want quality without overspending. While they may not replace top-tier brands for competitive tiers, they are more than sufficient for most anglers’ needs.
If you’re looking for **affordable yet reliable hackles** for small to medium-sized dry flies, this product is definitely worth considering. Give them a try, and you might find yourself reaching for them more often than expected!
**Rating: 4.2/5** (Great for the price, but not flawless)
Would you like recommendations for other fly-tying materials as well? Happy fishing! 馃帲