My New Vice…

[Mike G]

When I announced what I wanted for my birthday, my wife was skeptical. I never was much for gambling; I stopped smoking 25 years ago; I cut back on drinking; the other one is working fine for us. So what was I thinking? If I was thinking about something kinky, she made it clear that I would have to move out. So I ‘splained that I meant a fly tying vise-not another bad habit.

 

Once we got that straightened out my choice was easy. Ever since I read the review on Fly Fish Ohio, I have been intrigued by the Danvise. It got great marks for an $80 vise since it has many of the features of the Italian Sports Models that cost 2 to 3 times as much. Besides the basic vise I went ahead and got a jaw extender in case I want to do really long winged flies. Here’s the new baby.

 

 

It handles the biggest hook I have-a 5/0 Gamakatsu Siwash-easily. It also quickly adjusts to hold a #16 hook-one of my smallest. I have not done much tying with it yet since this time of year I prefer to fish when I get the time. So far I really like it.

 

BTW I thought it would be interesting to do a “family” photo of the vises I have used. From left to right they are:

 

1. My first one, 1955, Tack-L-Tyers Model F. Tack-L-Tyers was located in Evanston. Writers like Ruben Cross recommended them as a source for equipment.

2. My first upgrade, 1970, Herter’s Model 9. Herter’s is a long story.

3. The new baby, 2009, Danvise, AKA the Vader Vise. “Tie the force, Luke!”

 

 

If you are interested in seeing more on the Danvise, the webpage below has links to videos on setting up and adjusting the vise. (Right hand column.)

 

http://www.btsflyfishing.com/

 

[Guest rich mc]

congrats on your new tool. what is the first fly you tie on it? rich