Uuugly Hackle-Infested Heads

[Loren]

I can't seem to ty off the hackle without barbs in the hook eye. Whip-finishing usually does the same. I know I need to leave a little more room and have made devices to hold the hackle back as I whip finish, but are there other techniques?

Loren

[Drifter]

Loren,

I use a cone shaped metal doohickey (for lack of a better term). The center of the cone has a small hole to fit over the hook eye. This effectively pushes the hackle back and out of the way for finishing and glueing.

I also read where you can get a Bic pen, take the ink cartridge out and slide it over the eye, pushing the hackle back. Hope this helps. I could show you better than I can tell you.

Drifter

[Loren]

Drifter
Thanks, I got it. I've made do-hickies like this and know where I can buy them (and have bic pens. I will try this and tubes as well.

Loren

[BT]

Also before you pull that whip finish knot up tight take a pin or bodkin and pull those barbules out, then chinch up the knot.