Lot 250, Dyed Light Gray India Hen Back Saddle Feathers for Fly Tying
Mark Hopkins 
# **Kylebooker Lot 250, Dyed Light Gray India Hen Back Saddle Feathers for Fly Tying: A Review on Value for Money**
Fly tying is an art that requires high-quality materials to create effective and durable fishing flies. Among the essential components, feathers play a crucial role in mimicking natural insects and attracting fish. One product that has gained attention among fly tyers is the **Kylebooker Lot 250, Dyed Light Gray India Hen Back Saddle Feathers**. But does it offer good value for money? Let’s dive into a detailed review.
## **Product Overview**
The **Kylebooker Lot 250** consists of 250 dyed light gray hen back saddle feathers sourced from India. These feathers are specifically designed for fly tying, offering flexibility, durability, and a natural appearance when used in various fly patterns. The light gray color makes them versatile for imitating mayflies, caddisflies, and other aquatic insects.
### **Key Features:**
– **Quantity:** 250 feathers per lot
– **Color:** Dyed light gray
– **Origin:** India
– **Type:** Hen back saddle feathers
– **Primary Use:** Fly tying for trout, bass, and panfish flies
## **Quality Assessment**
### **1. Feather Texture & Durability**
Hen back feathers are known for their soft yet sturdy structure, making them ideal for wrapping around hooks. The **Kylebooker feathers** have a good balance of stiffness and flexibility, allowing for smooth wraps without excessive fraying. Compared to rooster hackle, hen feathers are less rigid but still hold their shape well in wet flies and nymphs.
### **2. Dye Quality & Consistency**
The light gray dye is evenly applied, with minimal color bleeding when wet. This is crucial for maintaining the fly’s appearance after multiple casts. Some users report slight variations in shade, but this is common in natural materials and can even enhance realism in certain patterns.
### **3. Feather Size & Usability**
The feathers range in size, making them suitable for different hook sizes (from #12 to #18). The barb lengths are consistent enough for standard dry flies and emergers, though larger streamer patterns may require additional trimming.
## **Price & Value for Money**
One of the biggest selling points of this product is its affordability. Compared to premium-grade rooster capes, which can cost significantly more, the **Kylebooker Lot 250** provides a budget-friendly alternative without sacrificing too much quality.
### **Pros:**
– **Cost-effective bulk purchase** (great for beginners or frequent tyers)
– **Good color retention** (does not fade quickly)
– **Decent barb length** for most standard patterns
– **Versatile for nymphs, wet flies, and soft hackles**
### **Cons:**
– **Not as stiff as rooster hackle** (may not be ideal for dry flies requiring high buoyancy)
– **Some natural imperfections** (occasional broken barbs, but expected at this price)
## **Comparison with Alternatives**
When stacked against premium brands like **Whiting Farms or Metz**, the **Kylebooker feathers** are not as refined, but they offer excellent value for casual or budget-conscious tyers. If you need ultra-stiff hackle for dry flies, investing in a Whiting cape might be better. However, for general-purpose tying, this product is a solid choice.
## **Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?**
For **fly tyers who prioritize affordability and bulk supply**, the **Kylebooker Lot 250** is a great deal. While it may not replace high-end hackle for specialized dry flies, it performs well in nymphs, wet flies, and streamers. The light gray dye is aesthetically pleasing, and the feather quality is sufficient for most fishing conditions.
**Rating: 4/5**
– **Quality:** 7/10
– **Price Value:** 9/10
– **Versatility:** 8/10
If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to stock up on fly-tying feathers without breaking the bank, this product is definitely worth considering. Happy tying and tight lines!