# **Kylebooker Fly Tying Tool Kit 12-Piece w/ Chrome AA Vise – NEW KT128: Is It Worth the Money?**
For avid fly fishermen, having a reliable and well-equipped fly tying kit is essential. The **Kylebooker Fly Tying Tool Kit 12-Piece w/ Chrome AA Vise (Model KT128)** is a popular choice among anglers looking for a complete and affordable setup. But does it offer good value for the price? In this review, we’ll examine its features, durability, and overall performance to determine whether it’s worth investing in.
## **Overview of the Kylebooker Fly Tying Kit**
This 12-piece kit includes all the essential tools needed for tying high-quality flies. The standout feature is the **chrome AA vise**, which provides a sturdy grip on hooks while allowing for precise thread and material placement. The kit also includes:
– **Bobbin holder** – For smooth thread control
– **Scissors** – Sharp and precise for cutting materials
– **Hackle pliers** – For securing feathers
– **Bodkin needle** – Useful for applying glue and separating fibers
– **Whip finisher** – Helps secure knots neatly
– **Hair stacker** – Aligns hair for better fly construction
– **Threader tool** – Assists in threading bobbins
– **Dubbing twister** – For creating dubbing loops
– **Additional accessories** – Such as a bobbin threader and tweezers
## **Build Quality & Durability**
One of the main concerns with budget-friendly fly tying kits is whether the tools are durable enough for long-term use. The **Kylebooker KT128** features a **chrome-plated vise**, which provides corrosion resistance and a smooth operation. While it may not be as heavy-duty as premium brands like Renzetti or Regal, it holds up well for beginners and intermediate tiers.
The **scissors and pliers** are made of stainless steel, ensuring they stay sharp and rust-free. However, some users note that the scissors could be sharper for ultra-fine trimming. The **bobbin holder** functions well but may require occasional adjustments to maintain tension.
## **Performance & Ease of Use**
The **AA vise** is the centerpiece of this kit. It offers a **rotating head**, which is helpful for inspecting flies from all angles. The **adjustable tension screw** keeps hooks firmly in place, though extremely small hooks (below size 20) might be slightly tricky to secure.
The **bobbin holder** provides smooth thread flow, though some users prefer upgrading to a ceramic-tipped version for even better performance. The **whip finisher** works efficiently, but beginners might need a little practice to master it.
## **Value for Money**
Compared to high-end fly tying kits that can cost hundreds of dollars, the **Kylebooker KT128** is an excellent **budget-friendly option**. It includes all the necessary tools in one package, making it ideal for **beginners** or anglers who want a backup set. While professionals might prefer more specialized tools, this kit delivers solid performance for its price.
## **Pros & Cons**
### **Pros:**
✔ **Affordable** – Great for beginners without breaking the bank
✔ **Complete 12-piece set** – No need to buy tools separately
✔ **Chrome AA vise** – Decent grip and rotation for fly tying
✔ **Stainless steel tools** – Resistant to rust and wear
### **Cons:**
✘ **Scissors could be sharper** – May struggle with ultra-fine materials
✘ **Vise not as strong as premium models** – May slip with very small hooks
✘ **Bobbin tension may require adjustments** – Not as smooth as ceramic bobbins
## **Final Verdict: Is It Worth Buying?**
If you’re a **beginner or intermediate fly tier** looking for a **cost-effective** yet functional kit, the **Kylebooker Fly Tying Tool Kit 12-Piece w/ Chrome AA Vise (KT128)** is a solid choice. While it may not match the precision of high-end tools, it provides everything needed to tie quality flies without a hefty investment.
For **serious professionals**, upgrading individual tools (such as scissors or bobbin holders) might be necessary. However, for most anglers, this kit offers **great value for money** and is a worthwhile addition to any fly fishing arsenal.
Would you recommend this kit to fellow anglers? Let us know your thoughts in the comments! 🎣