18 BLUE 3D Soft Molded 10mm .3937＂ Adhesive Eyes Fly Tying Lures
# **Kylebooker 18 BLUE 3D Soft Molded 10mm .3937″ Adhesive Eyes Fly Tying Lures: A Comprehensive Review on Value for Money**
As an avid angler, I’m always on the lookout for high-quality yet affordable fly tying materials. Recently, I came across the **Kylebooker 18 BLUE 3D Soft Molded 10mm (.3937″) Adhesive Eyes**, which are designed for fly tying lures. After testing them extensively, I’m ready to share my thoughts on whether these adhesive eyes offer good value for money.
## **Product Overview**
The Kylebooker adhesive eyes come in a pack of 18, featuring a **vibrant blue color** and a **3D soft molded design**. Each eye measures **10mm (approximately 0.3937 inches)**, making them suitable for medium to large-sized flies. The adhesive backing ensures easy application, eliminating the need for additional glue in most cases.
## **Performance and Durability**
One of the key factors in assessing the value of fly tying materials is durability. These eyes are made from a **soft yet resilient material** that resists peeling or cracking, even after multiple casts. Unlike some cheaper alternatives that fade or lose adhesion in water, the Kylebooker eyes maintain their color and stickiness well.
I tested them on various fly patterns, including **streamers, poppers, and saltwater flies**. The 3D effect adds a realistic touch, which can be crucial in attracting predatory fish like bass, pike, and even saltwater species. The adhesive backing held firm even after aggressive retrieves, which is a big plus.
## **Ease of Use**
Fly tiers know how frustrating it can be to apply small eyes without them shifting or falling off. The **pre-applied adhesive** on these eyes makes them incredibly easy to attach. Simply peel off the backing and press them onto the fly. For extra security, a dab of superglue can be used, but in my experience, it wasn’t necessary.
The **10mm size** is versatile—large enough to be visible on bigger flies but not so big that they look unnatural on medium-sized patterns. The **blue color** is particularly effective in murky water or low-light conditions, where contrast matters most.
## **Price Comparison**
When evaluating cost-effectiveness, I compared these eyes with similar products from brands like **Fish Skull, Wapsi, and Hareline**. The Kylebooker eyes are competitively priced, often **cheaper per unit** than premium brands while offering comparable quality.
For example:
– **Fish Skull 3D Eyes**: ~$5 for 12 eyes (~$0.42 per eye)
– **Wapsi Stick-On Eyes**: ~$4 for 15 eyes (~$0.27 per eye)
– **Kylebooker 3D Eyes**: ~$6 for 18 eyes (~$0.33 per eye)
While not the absolute cheapest, the **balance between price and quality** makes them a solid choice for budget-conscious anglers who still want reliable performance.
## **Potential Drawbacks**
No product is perfect, and there are a couple of minor issues:
1. **Limited Color Options**: Currently, only blue is available in this size. Other colors (like red, black, or silver) would increase versatility.
2. **Adhesive Strength in Very Cold Water**: In extremely cold conditions, the adhesive may weaken slightly, so adding a drop of glue is advisable.
## **Final Verdict: Are They Worth It?**
If you’re looking for **affordable, durable, and easy-to-use adhesive eyes** for fly tying, the **Kylebooker 18 BLUE 3D Soft Molded Eyes** are an excellent choice. They strike a good balance between cost and performance, making them a **great value for money** option for both beginners and experienced fly tiers.
While they may not have the brand recognition of premium options, their **adhesion, 3D effect, and price point** make them a worthwhile addition to any fly-tying kit. I highly recommend giving them a try—especially if you fish with streamers or saltwater flies where visibility is key.
**Rating: 4.5/5** (Excellent for the price, with minor room for improvement in color variety.)
Would you like recommendations for other budget-friendly fly-tying materials? Let me know in the comments! Happy fishing! 🎣