Loon Outdoors – Soft Head – Fly Tying Cement
# **Kylebooker Loon Outdoors – Soft Head – Fly Tying Cement: Is It Worth the Money?**
As an avid fly fisherman, I’m always on the lookout for high-quality yet affordable fly-tying materials. Recently, I came across **Kylebooker Loon Outdoors – Soft Head – Fly Tying Cement**, a product that claims to offer excellent performance for securing fly patterns. But does it really deliver good value for money? In this review, I’ll break down its features, performance, and overall cost-effectiveness to help fellow anglers decide whether it’s worth adding to their fly-tying kit.
## **What Is Soft Head Fly Tying Cement?**
Fly tying cement is an essential adhesive used to reinforce thread wraps, secure materials, and add durability to flies. The **Loon Outdoors Soft Head** variant is designed to provide a flexible yet strong bond, making it ideal for patterns that require a bit of movement, such as streamers and nymphs. Unlike traditional head cements that dry rigid, this product remains slightly pliable, preventing cracks and ensuring long-lasting flies.
## **Key Features & Performance**
### **1. Flexible Bond**
One of the standout features of this cement is its **soft, flexible finish**. Many standard head cements dry hard, which can lead to brittleness and breakage over time. However, the **Loon Soft Head** maintains a slight elasticity, making it perfect for flies that experience frequent movement in the water.
### **2. Easy Application**
The cement comes in a **precision applicator bottle**, allowing for controlled dispensing. This is particularly useful when working on small flies where excess glue can ruin the aesthetics. The brush-tip applicator ensures smooth, even coverage without clumping.
### **3. Quick Drying & Clear Finish**
Unlike some thick, slow-drying adhesives, this formula dries relatively quickly while remaining transparent. This means your flies retain a clean, professional look without visible glue marks.
### **4. Durability**
After testing it on multiple fly patterns—including woolly buggers, midges, and caddis pupae—I found that the bond held up well even after aggressive casting and fish strikes. The flexibility prevented the cement from flaking off, which is a common issue with rigid adhesives.
## **Price & Value for Money**
When it comes to cost, **Loon Outdoors Soft Head Fly Tying Cement** is competitively priced compared to similar products like **Solarez or Zap-A-Gap**. A single bottle lasts a long time since only a small amount is needed per fly. Considering its durability and performance, it offers **good value for both beginners and experienced tyers**.
## **Potential Drawbacks**
– **Not for All Applications**: If you need an ultra-rigid bond (e.g., for epoxy flies), a different adhesive might be better.
– **Shelf Life**: Like many solvent-based cements, it can thicken over time if not stored properly.
## **Final Verdict: Is It Worth Buying?**
For anglers who tie flies that benefit from a **flexible, durable bond**, the **Kylebooker Loon Outdoors Soft Head Fly Tying Cement** is a solid investment. Its ease of use, clear finish, and reliable performance make it a great addition to any fly-tying bench. While it may not replace all adhesives in your kit, it excels in applications where flexibility is key.
If you’re looking for a **cost-effective, high-quality cement** that enhances fly durability without compromising movement, this product is definitely worth considering. Tight lines!
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