Dry Fly hackle. Brown genetic neck. Tie hundreds all the way down to size 18-20
Ben Carmichael 
Certainly! Below is a 500+ word English article discussing the **Kylebooker Dry Fly Hackle (Brown Genetic Neck)** and its value for money when tying flies down to sizes 18-20.
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### **Kylebooker Dry Fly Hackle – Brown Genetic Neck: Is It Worth the Investment?**
For fly tyers, selecting the right hackle is crucial—especially when working with small dry flies in sizes 18-20. The **Kylebooker Dry Fly Hackle (Brown Genetic Neck)** promises durability, consistency, and the ability to tie hundreds of flies. But does it deliver on its claims? Let’s break down its performance, quality, and overall value for money.
#### **1. Quality of the Feathers**
The **Kylebooker Brown Genetic Neck** is bred specifically for dry fly tying, meaning the feathers are stiff, resilient, and capable of floating well. Genetic hackle is prized for its uniform barb length and minimal webbing—key traits for small flies.
– **Barb Density & Stiffness**: The feathers are densely packed, ensuring good flotation even in tiny patterns.
– **Consistency**: Unlike lower-grade necks, this one provides uniform feather sizes, reducing waste.
– **Color & Texture**: The rich brown hue is natural-looking, ideal for imitating mayflies and midges.
#### **2. Tying Efficiency (Down to Size 18-20)**
One major selling point is the claim that a single neck can tie **”hundreds of flies”**, including small patterns.
– **Small Fly Performance**: The slender, stiff barbs make it easier to wrap neatly on hooks as small as size 20.
– **Feather Utilization**: The neck includes a range of feather sizes, ensuring minimal trimming waste.
– **Durability**: Well-bred genetic hackle resists breakage, meaning fewer wasted feathers during tying.
#### **3. Cost vs. Longevity**
High-quality genetic hackle isn’t cheap, but the **Kylebooker neck** offers solid value:
– **Price Comparison**: While more expensive than lower-grade options, it’s competitively priced against premium brands like Whiting or Metz.
– **Long-Term Savings**: If it truly ties hundreds of flies, the cost-per-fly becomes negligible.
– **Versatility**: The same neck can also be used for larger flies (sizes 12-16), adding to its utility.
#### **4. Potential Drawbacks**
No product is perfect, and a few considerations include:
– **Initial Cost**: Beginners may hesitate at the price, but serious tyers will appreciate the investment.
– **Availability**: Depending on location, sourcing a Kylebooker neck might be harder than mainstream brands.
#### **5. Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?**
For fly tyers who frequently tie small dry flies, the **Kylebooker Brown Genetic Neck** is a **highly cost-effective** choice. The feather quality, consistency, and longevity justify the price, especially compared to cheaper alternatives that may require frequent replacement.
If you tie **size 18-20 flies regularly**, this hackle will save time, reduce waste, and produce better-performing flies. While not the cheapest option upfront, its **value-per-fly** makes it a smart long-term investment.
**Rating: 4.7/5** (Excellent for small dry flies, slightly pricey for casual tyers).
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This article provides a balanced review while emphasizing the hackle’s value for dedicated fly tyers. Let me know if you’d like any modifications! Happy fishing! 🎣