Metz Cock Necks - Grade 2

Metz Cock Necks - Grade 2 give you excellent genetic dry-fly hackle with a broad choice of feather sizes, ideal for a box that spans little olives, sedges and classic hackled dries.

Metz Cock Necks - Grade 2 Key Features and Benefits

• Genetic cock hackle with stiff, finely tapered barbs to support floating dry flies
• Fine stems that wind neatly with less unwanted bulk
• A useful range of feather lengths for patterns across different trout-hook sizes
• Grade 2 offers strong quality and practical yield without the top Grade 1 price

Top Tips for Using Metz Cock Necks - Grade 2

• Size each hackle against the hook gape before tying it in
• For a slim dun, wind a few well-spaced turns rather than a dense collar
• When tying a parachute, use a flexible fine stem and secure the post properly first
• Reserve shorter fine feathers for small flies instead of using the neck from the widest end

Fly Patterns and Uses for Metz Cock Necks - Grade 2

• Adams and Blue-Winged Olive dry flies
• Elk Hair Caddis and similar sedges
• Traditional hackled duns and parachute variations

Metz Cock Necks - Grade 2 Frequently Asked Questions

Should I choose a Metz neck or saddle?

Choose a neck if you tie many hook sizes. A saddle is especially useful for longer feathers in a narrower range of sizes. See our Metz selection guide for a side-by-side explanation.

Is Grade 2 good enough for serious dry-fly tying?

Absolutely. The quality is excellent; the difference from Grade 1 is mainly the quantity and selection of premium feathers on the neck.

Why are some Metz colours hard to find?

A curious part of hackle history: demand surged when Steven Tyler of Aerosmith wore long feathers as hair extensions on American Idol. The fashion boom drew heavily on the same genetic feathers fly tyers love; availability has since improved, although some popular colours can still be difficult to source.

Can I use these hackles for parachutes?

Yes. Pick a fine flexible stem and wind it level around a well-supported wing post.