**Kylebooker STRUNG CHINESE BLACK ROOSTER FEATHER SADDLES 5-7″ & HARELINE DUB BLACK CHENILLE: Are They Worth the Investment?**
As an avid fly-tying enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for high-quality materials that offer both performance and value. Recently, I came across the **Kylebooker Strung Chinese Black Rooster Feather Saddles (5-7″)** and **Hareline DUB Black Chenille**, two products that have garnered attention in the fly-tying community. But do they live up to the hype? Let’s break down their features, usability, and cost-effectiveness to determine if they’re worth adding to your toolkit.
### **1. Kylebooker Strung Chinese Black Rooster Feather Saddles (5-7″)**
#### **Quality and Versatility**
These saddles are sourced from premium Chinese rooster feathers, known for their durability and natural iridescence. The 5-7″ length makes them ideal for tying a variety of flies, from streamers to wet flies and even dry flies. The fibers are stiff enough to hold their shape underwater yet flexible enough to mimic natural movement—a critical trait for enticing fish.
Compared to other brands, Kylebooker’s feathers are consistently well-strung, with minimal defects. The deep black color is uniform, which is essential for creating visually appealing patterns. Additionally, the barb length is perfect for larger hooks (size 6-10), making them a go-to for bass or pike flies.
#### **Price Point**
At around **$15–$20 per pack** (depending on the retailer), these saddles are competitively priced. While cheaper options exist, they often lack the consistency and sheen that Kylebooker provides. For serious tyers, the slight premium is justified by the reliability and time saved sorting through subpar feathers.
### **2. Hareline DUB Black Chenille**
#### **Texture and Workability**
Chenille is a staple in fly-tying, particularly for woolly buggers, leeches, and other bulky patterns. Hareline’s DUB chenille stands out for its **soft yet dense texture**, which wraps smoothly around the hook without fraying. The black variant is especially useful for creating contrast in articulated flies or adding depth to nymph bodies.
Unlike cheaper chenille that sheds or loses its shape after a few casts, Hareline’s product maintains its integrity even after repeated use. The slight fuzziness also traps air bubbles, giving wet flies a subtle lifelike pulsation.
#### **Cost Efficiency**
A standard spool retails for **$4–$6**, offering enough material for dozens of flies. Given its durability, it’s a far better investment than bargain-bin chenille, which often requires doubling up layers to achieve the same effect.
### **Combined Value for Fly-Tyers**
Pairing these two materials opens up endless possibilities. For example:
– **Black Streamers**: Use the rooster saddles for the tail and the chenille for the body to create a sleek, predatory profile.
– **Nymphs**: Wrap the chenille as an underbody and overlay with feather fibers for segmentation.
The **total cost for both materials is under $30**, yet they can produce hundreds of flies. Compared to pre-made flies (which often cost $2–$5 each), this combo is a **cost-effective long-term solution**.
### **Potential Drawbacks**
– **Rooster Feathers**: While high-quality, they may be overkill for small midge patterns.
– **Chenille Weight**: The DUB variant is slightly heavier than ultra-fine chenille, which could affect sink rates in delicate presentations.
### **Final Verdict: High性价比 (Cost-Effective)**
For fly-tiers who prioritize **durability, aesthetics, and versatility**, the Kylebooker saddles and Hareline chenille deliver excellent value. While not the cheapest options on the market, their performance justifies the price, especially for anglers targeting larger species or tying in bulk.
**Rating**: 4.5/5 (Highly recommended for intermediate to advanced tyers).
Would you try this combo? Share your thoughts in the comments!