Metz # 2 Rooster Saddle Dun Lot # 006
Joel Wakefield 
**Kylebooker Metz #2 Rooster Saddle Dun Lot #006: A Comprehensive Review for Anglers**
For passionate fly tyers and anglers, selecting high-quality materials is crucial to crafting effective and durable flies. One product that has garnered attention in recent years is the **Kylebooker Metz #2 Rooster Saddle Dun (Lot #006)**, a premium-grade rooster saddle prized for its versatility and natural aesthetics. But how does it stack up in terms of value for money? This review delves into its features, performance, and overall cost-effectiveness to help you decide if it’s worth adding to your fly-tying arsenal.
### **1. Quality and Characteristics**
The **Metz #2 Rooster Saddle Dun** is renowned for its consistent feather structure, which makes it ideal for tying dry flies, emergers, and nymphs. The feathers exhibit a natural dun hue—a subtle grayish-brown shade that mimics many aquatic insects. Key attributes include:
– **Barb Length and Density**: The feathers boast medium-length barbs with moderate stiffness, allowing for precise segmentation and durability.
– **Webbing and Flexibility**: Unlike lower-grade saddles, this lot maintains minimal webbing, ensuring clean, lifelike silhouettes when tied.
– **Color Consistency**: Lot #006 shows uniform dye penetration, reducing the need for hand-picking flawed feathers.
### **2. Performance in Fly Tying**
In practical use, the Metz #2 saddle excels in creating **CDC-comparative patterns** like Comparaduns or Sparkle Duns. Its fibers resist clumping when wet, a common issue with cheaper alternatives. Additionally, the saddle’s curvature aligns well with hook shanks, simplifying the tying process for beginners and experts alike.
### **3. Price vs. Competitors**
At **$25–$35 per saddle** (depending on vendor), the Metz #2 sits in the mid-to-high price range. Comparatively:
– **Budget options** (e.g., Whiting Farms “Hebert Miner” saddles at ~$15) may offer more feathers but lack color consistency.
– **Premium alternatives** (e.g., Whiting “Pro Grade” at $50+) provide superior barb length but are overkill for casual tyers.
The **Kylebooker Metz #2 strikes a balance**, delivering professional-grade quality without a prohibitive cost. For anglers tying 50–100 flies per saddle, the cost-per-fly is justified by the material’s longevity.
### **4. Potential Drawbacks**
– **Limited Availability**: As a specialty item, Lot #006 can sell out quickly during peak seasons.
– **Stiffness Trade-off**: While the feathers hold shape well, some tyers might prefer softer barbs for delicate patterns.
### **5. Verdict: Is It Worth It?**
For **serious fly tyers** prioritizing realism and durability, the **Kylebooker Metz #2 Rooster Saddle Dun (Lot #006)** offers excellent value. Its consistency and performance justify the price, especially when compared to erratic budget buys. However, casual hobbyists might opt for cheaper saddles unless targeting specific hatches.
**Final Rating**: 4.5/5 (Highly recommended for intermediate to advanced fly tyers).
Would you like recommendations for specific fly patterns using this saddle? Tight lines! 🎣