**Kylebooker FLY TYING, DUBBING MARSUPIAL, OPOSSUM and KANGAROO, BULK 16 COLOURS, 400 gr. – Is It Worth the Investment?**
For fly-tying enthusiasts, the choice of dubbing material can make or break the success of their artificial flies. The **Kylebooker FLY TYING Dubbing** set, featuring marsupial fibers from opossum and kangaroo in 16 vibrant colors (400 grams total), has gained attention among anglers. But does it offer good value for money? Let’s dive into its features, performance, and overall cost-effectiveness.
### **1. Material Quality: Natural and Versatile**
The blend of **opossum and kangaroo fur** is a standout feature. These natural fibers are prized for their durability, fine texture, and ability to hold air bubbles underwater—key for creating lifelike nymphs and dry flies. Unlike synthetic dubbing, marsupial fur has a subtle sheen and excellent water resistance, making it ideal for imitating insects like mayflies and caddisflies.
The inclusion of **16 colors** (from earthy browns to bright attractors) ensures versatility for matching local hatch conditions. Whether you’re tying subtle patterns for wary trout or flashy streamers for bass, this range covers most scenarios.
### **2. Bulk Packaging: Economical for Frequent Tyers**
At **400 grams**, this set is significantly larger than typical dubbing packs (which often contain 5–20 grams). For serious fly-tiers who go through materials quickly, buying in bulk reduces long-term costs. The price-per-gram ratio is competitive compared to smaller, branded packages.
However, beginners might find the volume overwhelming. If you only tie flies occasionally, a smaller kit could be more practical.
### **3. Performance on the Hook**
– **Ease of Use**: The fibers blend smoothly with wax or thread, adhering well without clumping.
– **Floatation**: Kangaroo fur’s hollow structure aids buoyancy for dry flies.
– **Durability**: Flies tied with this dubbing resist fraying, even after multiple catches.
Some users note that opossum fibers are slightly coarser than premium hare’s mask dubbing, but this can be an advantage for creating buggy, segmented bodies.
### **4. Price vs. Competitors**
Compared to brands like **Hareline or Wapsi**, Kylebooker’s bulk offering is cheaper per gram. For example:
– A 10-gram Hareline package costs ~$5 (or $0.50/gram).
– Kylebooker’s 400-gram set is priced at ~$60 (or $0.15/gram)—a **70% savings** if you utilize the entire volume.
### **5. Potential Drawbacks**
– **Color Consistency**: A few reviews mention slight variations between batches.
– **Storage**: Bulk packaging requires airtight containers to prevent moisture damage.
### **Verdict: High Value for Dedicated Tyers**
If you tie flies regularly, the **Kylebooker dubbing set** is a cost-effective, high-quality choice. The natural fibers outperform many synthetics, and the bulk savings are substantial. However, casual tyers might prefer smaller quantities to avoid waste.
**Final Rating**: 4.5/5 (Excellent for bulk buyers, minor batch-variability issues).
For under $60, this kit could supply your dubbing needs for years—making it a smart addition to any fly-tying bench. Tight lines!
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