Originally Posted by
TahoeJoe
I've been noticing the barbs on SST's flies and they always seem to be nicely flattened. Most of the time, I don't get the barb to lay down and break the tip off and then have to squash the nub down. What's a good technique to get the barb to flatten without breaking?
Thanks,
Joe
PS The construction and the photography of SSTs flies are always top notch. Nice stuff!
Thank you for the kind words.
I use the jaws of the vise to flatten the barb before I tie. This way I never forget! The exception would be for presentation/shadow box flies where the barb provides more aesthetics.
Additionally, I try to avoid some brand of hooks due to their brittleness at the barb. There are a few exceptions- when I absolutely must have a certain style. In extreme cases I break out the Dremel and smooth the barb area out. Otherwise I try my hardest to purchase strictly barbless hooks.
You shoulda been here yesterday!
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