100 sq. in. DEER HAIR, tanned, fly tying material
# **Kylebooker 100 sq. in. DEER HAIR, Tanned, Fly Tying Material: Is It Worth the Price?**
As an avid fly fisherman, I’m always on the lookout for high-quality materials that enhance my fly-tying experience. Recently, I came across the **Kylebooker 100 sq. in. Tanned Deer Hair**, marketed as a premium fly-tying material. But does it live up to the hype? In this review, I’ll evaluate its quality, usability, and overall value for money to help fellow anglers decide if it’s worth adding to their toolkit.
## **Quality and Texture**
One of the most critical factors in fly-tying materials is texture. Deer hair needs to be stiff enough to provide buoyancy yet flexible enough for easy tying. The **Kylebooker tanned deer hair** strikes a good balance—it’s firm enough for spinning and stacking but doesn’t feel overly brittle. The tanning process ensures durability while maintaining natural fibers, which is crucial for creating realistic patterns.
Compared to cheaper, untanned deer hair, this product has a more consistent texture, reducing the likelihood of weak spots that can ruin a fly. The fibers also have a natural taper, making them ideal for tying bass bugs, dry flies, and streamers.
## **Color and Dye Quality**
The tanned deer hair from Kylebooker comes in a natural tan shade, which is versatile for various fly patterns. The dye job is even, with no blotchy patches—something I’ve encountered with lower-quality brands. The color holds well when wet, which is essential for flies that need to stay visible in different water conditions.
If you prefer dyed deer hair, Kylebooker offers multiple color options, but the natural tan version is my top pick due to its adaptability. Whether you’re tying an Elk Hair Caddis or a Muddler Minnow, this material blends well with other components.
## **Usability in Fly Tying**
Spinning deer hair can be tricky, especially if the fibers are too soft or inconsistent. The **Kylebooker 100 sq. in. deer hair** performs well in this regard. The strands are long enough for stacking and spinning, and they hold their shape when compressed. I’ve tied multiple flies with this material, and it hasn’t frayed or split unexpectedly, which is a common issue with lower-grade deer hair.
Another advantage is the minimal waste. Cheaper packs often contain unusable patches or overly short fibers, but this product offers a high yield per square inch.
## **Price vs. Competitors**
At first glance, the **Kylebooker deer hair** might seem slightly more expensive than generic options. However, considering its consistency and durability, it’s actually a solid investment. Cheaper alternatives often require sorting through unusable sections, leading to wasted money in the long run.
Compared to premium brands like **Wapsi or Hareline**, Kylebooker holds its own in quality while sometimes being more affordable. If you tie flies frequently, this material will save you time and frustration, making the slightly higher price justifiable.
## **Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?**
For fly tyers who prioritize **quality, consistency, and ease of use**, the **Kylebooker 100 sq. in. Tanned Deer Hair** is an excellent choice. While it may not be the cheapest option on the market, its superior texture, dye quality, and minimal waste make it a cost-effective solution for serious anglers.
If you’re a beginner, you might opt for a smaller pack first to test it out. But for intermediate to advanced fly tyers, this material is a reliable addition to your collection. **Overall rating: 4.5/5** (only marked down slightly due to the higher initial cost).
Would I buy it again? Absolutely—this deer hair has become a staple in my fly-tying kit.