OPST Shank Chuck tool in hand.
Thumbs up in my opinion for this new OPST tool. I have been satisfied enough using my HMH tool fly adaptor to hold my shanks while tying Intruders but have long awaited the arrival of this new tool offered by OPST (Olympic Peninsula Skagit Tactics).
The business end of the OPST Shank Chuck tool.
The chuck tightens by rotating the head to secure the shank in the chuck just like in a power drill.
This tool works superbly with many fly vises including the Regal Revolution vise. Questions regarding whether it will be compatible with your vise will be answered by our staff at the Caddis Fly shop.
The rear of the tool is designed to be secured in a very wide variety of fly vises. I use a Regal Revolution vise to hold this tool. The chuck will not work with all fly vises.
This photo shows a shank in the chuck.
The Shank Chuck is secured in the Regal Vise and aligned parallel with the fly bench.
A close view of the shank secured in the chuck and the trailer lashed to the shank.
A freshly tied Intruder crafted with the help of the OPST Shank Chuck tool.
One advantage of this tool over using the HMH Tube Fly tool is that I am able to secure my trailer material closer to the end of the shank – a feature I much appreciate. The symmetry of this tool also allows me to rotate the vise head and still have the fly parallel to the fly bench – this makes it easier to tie in materials like ostrich all around the fly.
I have found that this tool holds my shanks securely and dependably – without exception. The Shank Chuck tool joins the OPST Dubbing twirler tool and has earned a place among my favorite fly tying tools.
I should note that this chuck does not work with Senyo’s shanks or Waddington shanks. It is designed strictly to hold a straight shank like the OPST shanks or heavy spinner wire or a straight hook shank (with the hook cut off above the bend).
Jay Nicholas – winter season 2016/17
Hey how does this tool work tying tube flies? I use the prosportfisher flexi tubes so I’m thinking I’d need a needle too. How stuff does the tube need to be? Thoughts? Thanks!