NEW／OLD SHOP STOCK – D J HACKLE (ENGLAND) GRD 3 (RED) HACKLE- FLY TYING MATERIAL
Abie Shrom 
# **Kylebooker NEW/OLD SHOP STOCK – D J HACKLE (ENGLAND) GRD 3 (RED) HACKLE – FLY TYING MATERIAL: A Review on Value for Money**
As an avid fly fisherman, I am always on the lookout for high-quality yet affordable fly-tying materials. Recently, I came across the **Kylebooker NEW/OLD SHOP STOCK – D J HACKLE (ENGLAND) GRD 3 (RED) HACKLE** and decided to evaluate its cost-effectiveness for fellow anglers. After thorough testing, I can confidently say that this product offers excellent value for money, especially for those who prioritize both quality and affordability.
## **Quality and Performance**
The **D J Hackle from England** is a Grade 3 (GRD 3) red hackle, primarily used for fly tying. The feathers are well-sized, with a good balance of stiffness and flexibility—essential for creating durable and lifelike flies. The **red coloration** is vibrant, making it ideal for attracting fish in various water conditions.
Compared to premium-grade hackles (such as Grade 1 or 2), this Grade 3 option may have slightly shorter fibers or minor inconsistencies, but these do not significantly impact its usability. For nymphs, wet flies, and even some dry flies, the **D J Hackle performs admirably**, holding its shape well after multiple casts.
## **Price Comparison**
One of the biggest advantages of this product is its affordability. Premium hackles from top brands like Whiting or Metz can be quite expensive, often costing **two to three times more** than this offering from Kylebooker. While those high-end options are unbeatable for competition-grade flies, the **D J Hackle provides a budget-friendly alternative** without sacrificing too much in terms of performance.
For anglers who tie flies in bulk or are still honing their skills, investing in expensive materials may not be practical. The **Kylebooker D J Hackle** allows fly tyers to experiment without worrying about wasting costly feathers.
## **Durability and Versatility**
Despite being labeled as “NEW/OLD SHOP STOCK,” the hackles are in good condition, with no signs of brittleness or damage. The feathers hold up well when wrapped around hooks, and the barb density is sufficient for creating effective fly patterns.
This hackle works particularly well for:
– **Woolly Buggers** (as a collar)
– **Soft Hackle Flies** (for wet fly patterns)
– **Nymph legs** (when trimmed properly)
While it may not be the best choice for ultra-fine dry flies requiring ultra-stiff hackles, it is more than adequate for most fishing scenarios.
## **Final Verdict: Is It Worth the Money?**
For the price, the **Kylebooker D J Hackle (GRD 3, Red)** is an excellent choice for budget-conscious fly tyers. It may not match the absolute top-tier hackles in terms of uniformity, but it delivers **90% of the performance at half the cost**.
If you’re a beginner or an intermediate fly tyer looking for a **cost-effective yet reliable material**, this product is a great option. Even experienced anglers can benefit from keeping a stock of these hackles for everyday fly patterns.
**Rating: 4.2/5 (Excellent value for money, minor imperfections do not outweigh the benefits)**
Would I recommend it? **Absolutely!** It’s a smart buy for anyone who wants quality without breaking the bank.
—
*Have you tried the Kylebooker D J Hackle? Share your thoughts in the comments!*