Indian Hen Saddle Dyed Black Durham Ranger Fly Tying
# **Kylebooker Indian Hen Saddle Dyed Black Durham Ranger Fly Tying: Is It Worth the Investment?**
For fly tyers and anglers, selecting the right materials is crucial for crafting effective and durable flies. One product that has gained attention in the fly-tying community is the **Kylebooker Indian Hen Saddle Dyed Black Durham Ranger**. But how does it perform in terms of quality, durability, and overall value? In this review, we’ll examine whether this product offers good **cost-performance (CP) value** for fly tyers.
## **1. Quality of the Feathers**
The **Indian Hen Saddle** is known for its soft yet resilient fibers, making it ideal for tying streamers, wet flies, and nymphs. The **dyed black** version enhances its versatility, allowing tyers to create darker patterns that mimic natural prey in various water conditions.
– **Fiber Strength**: The feathers hold up well when wrapped, resisting breakage during the tying process.
– **Consistency**: Unlike some lower-grade saddles, the Kylebooker variant provides uniform feather lengths and textures.
– **Dye Retention**: The black dye is deep and long-lasting, reducing fading even after repeated use.
## **2. Suitability for the Durham Ranger Fly**
The **Durham Ranger** is a classic salmon fly that requires high-quality hackle for its intricate wings and tail. The **Indian Hen Saddle** is a cost-effective alternative to more expensive genetic saddles, yet it delivers:
– **Flexibility**: The softer fibers allow for smooth wraps without excessive bulk.
– **Natural Movement**: When wet, the fibers retain a lifelike motion, crucial for attracting fish.
– **Ease of Use**: Beginners and experts alike will find these feathers manageable for complex patterns.
## **3. Price vs. Performance**
When assessing **cost-performance**, the **Kylebooker Indian Hen Saddle** stands out because:
– It is **more affordable** than premium genetic saddles (e.g., Whiting, Metz).
– It provides **enough material** for multiple flies, reducing waste.
– The **dyed black** option eliminates the need for additional coloring steps.
However, it’s not without drawbacks:
– Some users report minor **variations in feather density** between batches.
– Unlike genetic hackle, it may not be stiff enough for dry flies.
## **4. Verdict: Good Value for Streamer and Wet Fly Tyers**
If you primarily tie **streamers, nymphs, or wet flies**, the **Kylebooker Indian Hen Saddle Dyed Black** is an excellent choice. It balances affordability with performance, making it a **high-CP option** for anglers who need durable, dark feathers without overspending.
For **dry fly specialists**, a stiffer genetic saddle might be preferable. But for most fly tyers, especially those crafting **Durham Rangers and similar patterns**, this product is a **smart investment**.
### **Final Rating: 4.3/5**
✅ **Pros**: Affordable, good dye retention, versatile for wet flies.
❌ **Cons**: Not ideal for dry flies, slight batch inconsistencies.
Would you recommend this to other fly tyers? Absolutely—especially if you’re looking for **budget-friendly, high-quality materials** for streamer and salmon fly patterns.
Would you like recommendations for similar products or tying tips? Let me know! Tight lines! 🎣