**Is the Kylebooker NEW 250 YARD SPOOL OF 14/0 SHEER ULTRAFINE FLY TYING THREAD Worth the Investment? A Detailed Review**
For fly fishing enthusiasts, the quality of tying thread can make or break the durability and aesthetics of handcrafted flies. The **Kylebooker NEW 250 YARD SPOOL OF 14/0 SHEER ULTRAFINE FLY TYING THREAD** has garnered attention for its affordability and versatility, but does it deliver on performance? Let’s break down its value proposition, material quality, and suitability for different tying needs.
### **1. Price vs. Quantity: A Clear Advantage**
One of the standout features of this product is its **250-yard spool length**, which offers exceptional value compared to competitors. Many premium brands sell 100–200-yard spools at similar or higher prices. For tiers who frequently create patterns like midges, nymphs, or delicate dry flies, the extended yardage reduces the need for frequent replacements, making it a budget-friendly long-term choice.
### **2. Thread Thickness and Strength**
The **14/0 denier rating** places this thread in the ultra-fine category, ideal for intricate patterns requiring minimal bulk. However, some users might question its tensile strength. In testing, the Sheer Ultrafine thread holds up well for standard flies but may require doubling up for larger streamers or saltwater applications. Its nylon composition provides a balance of flexibility and durability, though it’s not as robust as Kevlar-based threads for heavy-duty use.
### **3. Color Options and Consistency**
Kylebooker offers a **wide color palette**, from classic shades (black, olive, brown) to vibrant hues (red, fluorescent orange). The dye consistency is commendable—colors remain uniform throughout the spool without bleeding when wet. This is critical for maintaining the professional finish of flies, especially when using light-colored threads for visibility.
### **4. Performance in Practical Tying**
– **Knot Security**: The thread’s slight wax coating enhances knot-holding ability, reducing slippage during whip finishes.
– **Smooth Layering**: Unlike cheaper threads that fray or create uneven wraps, this product lays flat without excessive twisting.
– **Compatibility**: Works seamlessly with bobbins and rotary vises, though beginners might find its fineness challenging initially.
### **5. Potential Drawbacks**
– **Not for Heavy Patterns**: While excellent for small flies, it’s less suited for bulky materials like deer hair or weighted hooks.
– **Spool Durability**: A few users noted that the plastic spool can crack if mishandled during storage.
### **Final Verdict: High Value for Delicate Work**
Priced competitively at **under $10 per spool**, the Kylebooker 14/0 thread is a cost-effective solution for tiers prioritizing precision over brute strength. Its colorfastness, smooth handling, and generous yardage make it ideal for trout flies and detailed work. However, those targeting larger species may need a supplemental heavy-duty thread.
**Rating: 4.5/5**
*Best for*: Budget-conscious anglers, dry fly specialists, and tiers who value color variety.
*Consider alternatives if*: You frequently tie saltwater flies or need extreme abrasion resistance.
For the price, this thread punches above its weight—making it a smart addition to any fly-tying kit.