**Kylebooker NOS Raymond Rumpf & Son Black Saddle Hackle Fly Fishing Vintage Tying: Is It Worth the Investment?**
For fly fishing enthusiasts, the quality of tying materials can make or break the success of their flies. Among the many options available, the **Kylebooker NOS (New Old Stock) Raymond Rumpf & Son Black Saddle Hackle** has garnered attention in the vintage fly-tying community. But how does it stack up in terms of value for money? Let’s dive into its features, rarity, and performance to assess its true cost-effectiveness.
### **1. Heritage and Rarity**
The **Raymond Rumpf & Son** brand is a legendary name in fly-tying history, known for producing premium-grade hackles before modern genetic breeding became mainstream. The **NOS (New Old Stock)** designation means these feathers are vintage but unused, preserved in excellent condition. This rarity alone adds significant collector’s value, making it a prized possession for traditionalists and historians of fly fishing.
### **2. Quality and Performance**
Unlike some modern hackles that may be overly stiff or inconsistent, the **Black Saddle Hackle** from Raymond Rumpf & Son is renowned for its **soft yet durable fibers**, ideal for creating smooth, lifelike movements in the water. The natural black dye (if any) tends to hold up better than synthetic alternatives, ensuring long-lasting vibrancy.
For dry flies, the hackle’s **barb density and stem flexibility** allow for clean, precise wraps without excessive bulk—a critical factor for imitating delicate insects like midges or mayflies. Wet fly and streamer tiers will also appreciate its strength when palmering.
### **3. Price vs. Modern Alternatives**
One major consideration is cost. Vintage materials like this often come at a premium due to scarcity. A **modern high-grade saddle hackle** from brands like Whiting or Metz may offer similar performance at a lower price, but they lack the historical charm and uniqueness of NOS Rumpf hackle.
If you prioritize **authenticity and tradition** in your tying, the Kylebooker NOS Rumpf hackle is a justifiable splurge. However, if pure functionality is your goal, comparable modern genetic hackles might be more budget-friendly.
### **4. Versatility in Fly Patterns**
This black saddle hackle is incredibly versatile, suitable for:
– **Dry flies** (e.g., Black Gnat, Mosquito)
– **Streamers** (e.g., Woolly Bugger variants)
– **Classic wet flies** (e.g., Black Prince)
Its neutral color also makes it easy to blend with other materials, offering flexibility in custom patterns.
### **5. Long-Term Value**
Given its **limited availability**, this hackle could appreciate in value over time, especially among collectors. If stored properly (away from moisture and pests), it remains a long-term asset in your tying kit.
### **Final Verdict: Good Value for the Right Angler**
The **Kylebooker NOS Raymond Rumpf & Son Black Saddle Hackle** is **not a budget option**, but it delivers exceptional quality, historical significance, and tying performance that modern alternatives can’t fully replicate. If you appreciate vintage materials or seek top-tier hackle for delicate dry flies, it’s a worthy investment. However, casual tiers or those on a tight budget might prefer contemporary genetic hackles.
For those who value **the art and tradition of fly tying**, this piece of fishing history is more than just feathers—it’s a connection to the craft’s golden age. **8.5/10 for性价比 (cost-performance ratio)**, with points deducted only for the premium price tag.
Would you add it to your collection? Tight lines! 🎣