# **Kylebooker Lot 74, Dyed Olive India Rooster Saddle Feathers for Fly Tying Jewelry: A Cost-Effective Choice?**
As an avid angler and fly-tying enthusiast, I am always on the lookout for high-quality yet affordable materials. Recently, I came across the **Kylebooker Lot 74, Dyed Olive India Rooster Saddle Feathers**, marketed for both fly tying and jewelry making. The question is: **Does this product offer good value for money?** After thorough research and hands-on testing, here’s my detailed review.
## **Product Overview**
The **Kylebooker Lot 74** consists of dyed olive rooster saddle feathers sourced from India. These feathers are primarily used for fly tying, particularly for crafting nymphs, streamers, and dry flies. However, they are also popular in jewelry making due to their vibrant color and soft texture.
### **Key Features:**
– **Material:** 100% natural rooster saddle feathers
– **Color:** Rich olive green (dyed)
– **Size:** Approximately 4-6 inches in length
– **Quantity:** Sold in bulk lots (varies by seller)
– **Versatility:** Suitable for fly tying and crafts
## **Performance in Fly Tying**
For fly fishermen, the quality of feathers is crucial. The **Kylebooker Lot 74** feathers have a decent barb structure, making them suitable for creating **soft hackles, collars, and wing cases**. The dyed olive color is consistent, which is great for matching natural insect patterns.
However, compared to premium-grade saddles (such as Whiting or Metz), these feathers are slightly **less uniform in size and stiffness**. While they work well for **budget-friendly flies**, professionals might prefer higher-end options for intricate patterns.
## **Durability & Color Retention**
One concern with dyed feathers is whether the color fades after prolonged exposure to water. In my tests, the olive dye held up reasonably well after multiple fishing trips, though some fading occurred over time. For occasional use, this shouldn’t be a major issue, but frequent anglers might need to replace them sooner than undyed or high-end feathers.
## **Price & Value for Money**
The biggest advantage of the **Kylebooker Lot 74** is its affordability. Compared to premium brands, these feathers are **significantly cheaper**, making them ideal for beginners or those tying flies in bulk.
### **Pros:**
✔ **Budget-friendly** – Great for hobbyists and bulk fly tying
✔ **Vibrant color** – Olive shade is useful for various fly patterns
✔ **Versatile** – Can be used for both fishing and crafts
### **Cons:**
❌ **Inconsistent sizing** – Some feathers are thinner or shorter
❌ **Moderate durability** – Color may fade with heavy use
❌ **Not premium-grade** – Not ideal for competition-level flies
## **Final Verdict: Is It Worth Buying?**
If you’re a **casual angler or a budget-conscious fly tyer**, the **Kylebooker Lot 74** offers solid value. The feathers are functional, reasonably durable, and come at a fraction of the cost of premium options. However, if you demand **flawless consistency and longevity**, investing in higher-end saddles might be a better long-term choice.
For **jewelry makers**, these feathers are an excellent, low-cost option due to their vibrant color and soft texture.
### **Rating: 7.5/10**
**Best for:** Beginners, budget fly tyers, craft enthusiasts
**Not ideal for:** Professional fly tiers seeking premium materials
Would I buy them again? **Yes, for casual tying and crafts**—but for competition-grade flies, I’d opt for Whiting or Metz feathers instead.
Would love to hear your thoughts if you’ve tried these feathers—share your experience in the comments! 🎣