Size That Hackle

Contributor: Dean Rapp

This tip was actually taken from information provided with the Hacklemaster hackle gauge that was designed and manufactured by the nationally known pro tier Al Troth.

"With a raxor blade cut the neck into 3 pieces. The middle section will contain the bulk of the sizes normally used - #10 to #18. Pull these from the skin and size with the Hacklemaster. When you have completed the sizing, store accordingly. The larger butt section will contain size 8 and larger hackle and the small nape section, size 20 and smaller. Keep these hackles on the skin and size as needed. When sizing white or light colored hackle, move your tying lamp slightly behind and to the side of the Hacklemaster. The face of the gage will go gray and the light spilling over the edge will light up the hackle fibers making them very easy to see."

You probably won't find any Hacklemaster branded hackle gauges these days but any hackle gauge will get the job done. Once you have everything sized its nice to be able to grab the appropriate size hackle for the job and just ty away. It is especially advantages when traveling to conclaves, tying classes, etc.