**Is the Kylebooker Eumer Pack of 20 Brass Salmon Tube Fly XS Coneheads Worth the Investment? A Comprehensive Review**
For avid fly fishermen, the quality and affordability of tying materials can make or break the fishing experience. The **Kylebooker Eumer Pack of 20 Brass Salmon Tube Fly XS Coneheads** has gained attention among anglers for its versatility and promise of durability. But does it deliver good value for money? Let’s break down its features, performance, and overall cost-effectiveness.
### **Product Overview**
This pack includes **20 brass coneheads** designed for tube fly tying, catering to salmon and steelhead fishing. The XS size ensures compatibility with smaller tubes, while the brass construction promises weight retention for better casting and sinking. Available in multiple colors, these coneheads aim to enhance fly patterns with both functionality and aesthetic appeal.
### **Key Features & Benefits**
1. **Durable Brass Material**
Brass is corrosion-resistant and heavier than aluminum, providing better sink rates—an advantage for deep-water salmon flies. Unlike plastic alternatives, brass withstands repeated use without cracking.
2. **Versatile Sizing (XS)**
The XS coneheads fit most standard tube fly hooks, making them ideal for smaller patterns like shrimp or baitfish imitations. Their compact design avoids bulkiness while maintaining the necessary weight.
3. **Color Variety**
Available in gold, silver, copper, and painted finishes, these coneheads add flash to attract fish in murky waters or low-light conditions.
4. **Affordability**
Priced competitively for a 20-pack, they offer a cost-effective alternative to premium brands like Hareline or Wapsi, which often charge more for fewer pieces.
### **Performance Evaluation**
– **Casting & Sink Rate**: The brass construction improves casting distance and helps flies reach deeper zones quickly—a must for salmon fishing.
– **Durability**: Unlike cheaper alloys, brass resents bending or tarnishing after prolonged water exposure.
– **Aesthetics**: The polished finishes create lifelike reflections, mimicking baitfish scales effectively.
### **Potential Drawbacks**
– **Limited Size Options**: Larger coneheads for bigger flies (e.g., intruder patterns) aren’t available in this XS range.
– **Paint Wear**: Painted versions may chip over time, though this is common across most brands.
### **Price vs. Competitors**
Compared to similar products:
– **Hareline Brass Coneheads**: ~$8 for 10 pieces (higher per-unit cost).
– **Wapsi Coneheads**: Lighter but less durable; priced similarly for fewer units.
The Kylebooker pack provides **double the quantity at a mid-range price**, striking a balance between economy and quality.
### **Final Verdict: Excellent Value**
For anglers prioritizing **durability, functionality, and affordability**, this product is a solid choice. While it lacks premium branding, the performance rivals more expensive options. Ideal for both beginners and seasoned tyers stocking up on essentials.
**Rating: 4.5/5**
**Recommendation**: Buy if you need reliable, budget-friendly coneheads for small to medium tube flies. For larger patterns, supplement with bigger sizes from other brands.
Whether you’re tying classic Ally’s Shrimp or experimenting with new designs, the Kylebooker Eumer coneheads offer a cost-efficient way to elevate your fly box without compromising quality. Tight lines!
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