25 x UKAS Quality Gold Counter Sunk Brass Beads For Fly Tying ／ Craft 3.3mm
Mark Hopkins 
# **Kylebooker 25 x UKAS Quality Gold Counter Sunk Brass Beads For Fly Tying / Craft 3.3mm: A Comprehensive Review on Value for Money**
As an avid angler, I鈥檓 always on the lookout for high-quality yet affordable fishing accessories. Recently, I came across the **Kylebooker 25 x UKAS Quality Gold Counter Sunk Brass Beads for Fly Tying / Craft (3.3mm)** and decided to evaluate whether they offer good value for money. After thorough testing and research, here鈥檚 my detailed review.
## **1. Product Overview**
These brass beads are designed primarily for **fly tying**, but they can also be used for various crafting purposes. The **3.3mm size** makes them suitable for a wide range of fly patterns, particularly nymphs and wet flies. The **gold-plated finish** adds an attractive, fish-enticing shimmer, while the **counter-sunk design** ensures smooth threading onto hooks.
### **Key Features:**
– **Material:** High-quality brass with gold plating
– **Size:** 3.3mm (ideal for small to medium flies)
– **Quantity:** 25 beads per pack
– **Design:** Counter-sunk for easy threading
– **Certification:** UKAS Quality Gold standard
## **2. Performance in Fly Tying**
### **Durability & Corrosion Resistance**
Since brass is naturally resistant to rust, these beads hold up well in both freshwater and saltwater conditions. The **gold plating** enhances their longevity, preventing tarnishing over time. After several fishing trips, I noticed minimal wear, even after repeated exposure to water.
### **Ease of Use**
The **counter-sunk hole** makes threading these beads onto hooks effortless, even for smaller-sized hooks. This is a significant advantage over standard beads, which sometimes require extra effort to align properly.
### **Fish Attraction**
The **gold finish** provides a subtle flash that mimics natural prey, making them highly effective for trout, salmon, and other game fish. I tested these beads on various nymph patterns and noticed an increase in strikes compared to plain brass or silver beads.
## **3. Price & Value for Money**
One of the biggest selling points of the **Kylebooker brass beads** is their affordability. Priced competitively, they offer excellent value, especially when compared to premium brands that charge significantly more for similar quality.
### **Comparison with Other Brands**
– **Cheaper Alternatives:** Some budget beads lack consistency in size or plating quality, leading to uneven performance.
– **High-End Brands:** While brands like Hareline or Wapsi offer premium beads, they often cost 2-3 times more per bead.
Given that **25 beads are included per pack**, the cost per bead is reasonable, making this a cost-effective choice for both beginners and experienced fly tiers.
## **4. Potential Drawbacks**
– **Limited Size Options:** Currently, only the **3.3mm size** is available, which may not suit all fly patterns.
– **Pack Quantity:** While 25 beads are sufficient for personal use, commercial fly tiers might prefer bulk options.
## **5. Final Verdict: Are They Worth It?**
**Yes!** The **Kylebooker UKAS Quality Gold Brass Beads** strike an excellent balance between **quality, durability, and affordability**. Whether you’re tying flies for personal use or crafting, these beads deliver reliable performance without breaking the bank.
### **Who Should Buy Them?**
– **Fly fishing enthusiasts** looking for durable, attractive beads
– **Budget-conscious anglers** who want premium quality at a reasonable price
– **Crafters** who need small, high-quality brass beads
### **Final Rating: 4.5/5**
(Minus 0.5 for lack of size variety, but otherwise a fantastic product!)
If you’re in the market for reliable, cost-effective fly-tying beads, the **Kylebooker 25 x UKAS Gold Brass Beads** are a solid investment. Happy fishing! 馃帲