# **Kylebooker Lot 393, Natural Hen Back Saddle Soft Hackle Feathers for Fly Tying: A Detailed Review on Value for Money**
Fly tying is an art that requires high-quality materials to create effective and durable fishing flies. One of the essential components in this craft is soft hackle feathers, which add lifelike movement to flies, making them more attractive to fish. Among the many options available, **Kylebooker Lot 393, Natural Hen Back Saddle Soft Hackle Feathers** has gained attention among fly tyers. But how does it perform in terms of **cost-effectiveness**? This article will analyze its quality, usability, and overall value to help you decide if it’s worth the investment.
## **Quality of the Feathers**
The first thing to consider is the **quality of the feathers**. The **Kylebooker Lot 393** features **natural hen back saddle feathers**, which are known for their flexibility and durability. Unlike stiff or brittle feathers, these are soft and pliable, making them ideal for wrapping around hooks without breaking.
– **Texture & Flexibility**: These feathers have a **natural taper**, allowing for smooth wraps when tying soft hackle flies.
– **Barb Length**: The fibers are neither too long nor too short, making them suitable for various fly patterns, from **spiders to wet flies**.
– **Color & Natural Appeal**: The natural brown and dun shades blend well with different fly designs, enhancing realism in the water.
Compared to lower-grade feathers, these hold up well after multiple uses, meaning fewer wasted materials—a key factor in determining **value for money**.
## **Quantity vs. Price**
Another critical aspect is **how much you get for the price**. The **Kylebooker Lot 393** typically comes in a **pack of multiple feathers**, often ranging from **10 to 20 pieces per lot**, depending on the seller.
– **Cost Comparison**: When compared to premium brands like **Whiting or Metz**, these feathers are **more affordable**, making them a great choice for budget-conscious fly tyers.
– **Durability per Feather**: Since each feather can be used for multiple flies, the **cost per fly** remains low, increasing the overall **return on investment**.
If you tie flies frequently, this lot provides **enough material to last for dozens, if not hundreds, of flies**, making it a **cost-effective** choice.
## **Versatility in Fly Patterns**
A major advantage of these feathers is their **versatility**. They can be used in:
– **Soft Hackle Flies** (e.g., Partridge & Orange, Pheasant Tail Soft Hackle)
– **Wet Flies** (e.g., Starling & Herl, March Brown Wet Fly)
– **Emerger Patterns** (e.g., CDC & Elk, Klinkhåmer variants)
Because the fibers are neither too stiff nor too soft, they work well in both **still water and moving currents**, giving flies a **natural pulsing action** that trout and other fish find irresistible.
## **Potential Drawbacks**
No product is perfect, and the **Kylebooker Lot 393** has a few minor limitations:
– **Consistency in Size**: Some users report slight variations in feather length, which may require trimming for uniformity.
– **Availability**: Depending on demand, these feathers may occasionally be out of stock, so bulk purchasing is advisable.
However, these issues are minor compared to the overall **quality-to-price ratio**.
## **Final Verdict: Is It Worth the Money?**
For fly tyers looking for **affordable yet reliable** soft hackle feathers, the **Kylebooker Lot 393** is an excellent choice. It offers:
✅ **Good feather quality** with natural movement
✅ **Reasonable quantity for the price**
✅ **Wide applicability across multiple fly patterns**
While premium brands may offer slightly better consistency, the **cost savings** make this product a **smart buy** for both beginners and experienced fly tyers. If you’re looking to stock up on soft hackle materials without overspending, this lot is **definitely worth considering**.
### **Conclusion**
If you prioritize **functionality, durability, and affordability**, the **Kylebooker Lot 393 Natural Hen Back Saddle Soft Hackle Feathers** delivers solid **value for money**. Whether you’re tying classic wet flies or experimenting with new patterns, these feathers will serve you well without breaking the bank.
**Happy tying, and tight lines!** 🎣