Lot 160, Dyed Dark Blue India Hen Back Saddle Feathers for Fly Tying
Jimmy Hewitson 
**Kylebooker Lot 160 Dyed Dark Blue India Hen Back Saddle Feathers for Fly Tying: A Review on Value for Money**
For fly-tying enthusiasts, finding high-quality materials at a reasonable price is essential. The **Kylebooker Lot 160 Dyed Dark Blue India Hen Back Saddle Feathers** is a product that has garnered attention among anglers. But does it offer good value for money? In this review, we’ll examine its quality, versatility, and cost-effectiveness to help you decide if it’s worth adding to your fly-tying toolkit.
### **Quality of the Feathers**
The first thing to consider is the **quality of the feathers**. The Lot 160 features dyed dark blue India hen back saddle feathers, which are known for their soft yet durable fibers. Unlike stiff rooster feathers, hen feathers are more pliable, making them ideal for creating lifelike nymphs, streamers, and wet flies. The dye job is consistent, with a rich, dark blue hue that doesn’t fade easily when wet—a crucial factor for maintaining the fly’s attractiveness in the water.
Additionally, the barbs (individual strands) are well-aligned, reducing the need for excessive trimming. This means less waste and more usable material per feather, which is a significant advantage for budget-conscious tiers.
### **Versatility in Fly Patterns**
One of the standout features of these feathers is their **versatility**. The dark blue color is excellent for imitating various aquatic insects, and the fibers can be used for:
– **Tailings** on nymphs and wet flies
– **Wing cases** for caddis and mayfly patterns
– **Collars** on streamers for added movement
Since the feathers are from the back saddle, they offer a good mix of longer and shorter fibers, allowing for flexibility in different fly sizes. Whether you’re tying a size 16 Pheasant Tail Nymph or a size 6 Woolly Bugger, these feathers can be adapted effectively.
### **Quantity vs. Price**
The **Lot 160** typically includes a bundle of feathers rather than just a few, making it a **bulk purchase option**. Compared to buying individual feathers, this lot provides better value, especially if you tie flies frequently.
When comparing prices with similar products from well-known brands like Whiting or Metz, the Kylebooker option is often **more affordable** without a significant drop in quality. This makes it an excellent choice for beginners or intermediate tiers who need reliable materials without overspending.
### **Potential Drawbacks**
No product is perfect, and there are a couple of minor considerations:
1. **Dye Bleeding**: Some users report slight color bleeding when first soaked, though this is common with dyed feathers and can be mitigated with a quick rinse.
2. **Consistency**: While most feathers in the lot are high-grade, occasional thinner or unevenly dyed feathers may appear. However, this is rare and doesn’t significantly impact usability.
### **Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?**
For fly-tiers looking for **affordable, durable, and versatile** feathers, the **Kylebooker Lot 160** is a solid choice. The dark blue dye is vibrant, the fibers are workable for various patterns, and the bulk pricing makes it cost-effective. While it may not match the absolute premium quality of high-end brands, it delivers excellent performance for its price range.
If you’re stocking up on fly-tying materials without breaking the bank, this product is definitely worth considering. Tight lines and happy tying!
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