# **Kylebooker Premium Brass Fly Tying Beads – 25 Pack: Are They Worth the Money?**
As an avid fly fisherman, I’m always on the lookout for high-quality tying materials that enhance my flies’ durability and presentation. Recently, I came across the **Kylebooker Premium Brass Fly Tying Beads – 25 Pack** and decided to test them out. After several weeks of use, I’m ready to share my thoughts on their performance, quality, and overall value for money.
## **First Impressions: Packaging and Quality**
The beads arrived in a small, resealable plastic bag, which is convenient for storage. Each bead is neatly packed, preventing scratches or damage during shipping. Upon inspection, I noticed that the brass beads have a smooth, polished finish with no visible imperfections. The holes are cleanly drilled, ensuring easy threading onto hooks.
Compared to cheaper alternatives, these beads feel noticeably heavier—a sign of solid brass construction rather than plated or alloy substitutes. The weight is crucial for fly tying, as it helps flies sink faster and maintain stability in the water.
## **Performance on the Water**
I tied several nymph patterns using these beads, including **Pheasant Tail Nymphs** and **Hare’s Ear Nymphs**. The added weight allowed my flies to reach deeper pools quickly, which is essential when targeting trout in fast-moving streams. Unlike plastic or aluminum beads, brass doesn’t float, ensuring consistent depth control.
Another advantage is their **durability**. After multiple outings, the beads showed no signs of tarnishing or chipping, even after bouncing off rocks. Cheaper beads often lose their shine or develop rough edges, which can weaken the thread or damage the hook eye. With Kylebooker’s beads, I haven’t encountered these issues.
## **Price vs. Value: Is the 25-Pack Worth It?**
At first glance, some anglers might hesitate due to the slightly higher price compared to bulk plastic or low-grade metal beads. However, considering the **longevity and performance**, the investment pays off.
– **Cost per bead**: If we break it down, each brass bead costs slightly more than budget options, but the improved hook balance and durability justify the expense.
– **Less waste**: Cheap beads often fail after a few uses, requiring frequent replacements. These brass beads last much longer, reducing long-term costs.
– **Better fish attraction**: The polished finish reflects light effectively, mimicking natural insect casings and increasing strikes.
## **Comparison to Other Brands**
I’ve previously used beads from **Firehole Outdoors** and **Wapsi**, and while those are also high-quality, Kylebooker’s beads stand out for their **consistent sizing and flawless finish**. Some budget brands have irregular holes or inconsistent weights, which can affect fly balance. With Kylebooker, every bead in the pack is uniform, ensuring predictable performance.
## **Final Verdict: Should You Buy Them?**
If you’re serious about fly tying and want beads that **last, perform well, and enhance your flies’ effectiveness**, the **Kylebooker Premium Brass Fly Tying Beads – 25 Pack** is an excellent choice. While they may cost a bit more upfront, their durability and performance make them a **smart long-term investment**.
For casual anglers who tie flies occasionally, cheaper options might suffice. But for those who demand precision and reliability, these brass beads are worth every penny.
### **Rating: 4.8/5**
– **Pros**: Durable, polished finish, consistent sizing, improves fly sink rate.
– **Cons**: Slightly pricier than low-end alternatives (but justified by quality).
If you’re looking to upgrade your fly-tying kit, I highly recommend giving these beads a try. Tight lines! �🎣
