# **Kylebooker Whiting Coq De Leon Saddle, Dark Pardo, Bronze Grade, Fly Tying: A Review on Value for Money**
Fly tying is an art that requires high-quality materials to create durable and effective flies. Among the most sought-after materials for tying classic dry flies and streamers is the **Kylebooker Whiting Coq De Leon Saddle in Dark Pardo, Bronze Grade**. But is it worth the investment? This review will analyze its quality, performance, and overall value for money to help you decide whether it’s a worthwhile addition to your fly-tying toolkit.
## **Understanding the Coq De Leon Feather**
The **Coq De Leon (CDL) rooster feathers** originate from Spain and are renowned for their durability, natural stiffness, and water-resistant properties. These feathers are highly prized in fly tying, especially for patterns like the **Royal Wulff, Adams, and Elk Hair Caddis**, where stiff, barb-free hackles are essential for buoyancy.
The **Kylebooker Whiting CDL Saddle** is sourced from premium genetic roosters, ensuring consistent feather quality. The **Dark Pardo (brown) shade** is particularly versatile, blending well with various fly patterns, while the **Bronze Grade** indicates a mid-range quality—excellent for most tying needs without the premium price of higher grades.
## **Quality and Performance**
### **1. Feather Structure & Usability**
The **Bronze Grade CDL saddle** provides a good balance between affordability and performance. The feathers exhibit:
– **Natural stiffness** – Ideal for dry flies that need to float well.
– **Uniform barb length** – Ensures consistent wraps when tying.
– **Minimal webbing** – Reduces bulk and improves fly presentation.
Compared to lower-grade saddles, the **Bronze Grade CDL offers better durability**, meaning fewer wasted feathers and longer-lasting flies.
### **2. Color & Aesthetics**
The **Dark Pardo shade** is a rich, natural brown with subtle iridescence, making it suitable for:
– **Mayfly imitations** (e.g., Parachute Adams)
– **Caddis patterns** (e.g., Elk Hair Caddis)
– **Terrestrials** (e.g., ants and beetles)
Unlike dyed feathers, the natural coloration ensures better light refraction, enhancing the fly’s attractiveness to fish.
### **3. Value for Money**
While **Gold and Silver Grade CDL saddles** offer superior feather density and length, they come at a significantly higher cost. The **Bronze Grade** is an excellent compromise, providing:
– **Affordability** – Priced lower than premium grades but still high-performing.
– **Sufficient feather count** – Enough for dozens of flies without excessive waste.
– **Reliable performance** – Works well for both dry flies and nymph collars.
For fly tyers who don’t need ultra-premium hackles but still want quality, this saddle is an excellent choice.
## **Comparison with Alternatives**
– **Whiting Farms 100-Pack Dry Fly Hackle** – More affordable, but lacks the natural water resistance of CDL.
– **Metz Hackle** – Good quality but often softer, making it less ideal for dry flies.
– **Cheap Synthetic Hackle** – Lacks the natural movement and buoyancy of real feathers.
The **Kylebooker Whiting CDL Saddle stands out** due to its **natural durability and classic appeal**, making it a better long-term investment.
## **Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?**
If you’re serious about fly tying and want **a balance between cost and performance**, the **Kylebooker Whiting Coq De Leon Saddle in Dark Pardo, Bronze Grade** is a solid choice. While not the absolute highest grade, it provides **excellent value for money**, ensuring your flies float well and last longer.
For **beginners**, it might be slightly pricey compared to basic hackle, but **intermediate to advanced tyers** will appreciate its quality. If you tie a lot of dry flies, this saddle is a **wise investment** that won’t disappoint.
### **Rating: 4.5/5**
– **Pros:** Natural water resistance, good stiffness, versatile color, decent price.
– **Cons:** Not as densely packed as Gold/Silver Grade (but significantly cheaper).
**Conclusion:** If you want **authentic, high-performing hackle without breaking the bank**, this saddle is a fantastic option. Happy tying! 🎣