I'm thinkin about trying fly tying for next year, but I'm totally lost when it comes to picking out a vise. I'm looking for something probably under $100 that ties from size at least 24 to like 1/0. Also, I kinda want one of decent quality, so that if I actually like fly tying then I won't be stuck with a crappy vise. Anyone have any suggestions?

Morning skewl. I am definately no expert(just a beginner) but I can say for sure, Don't buy a cheepie vice. I bought a whole tying tool kit with a vice, bobbin, scissors, bobbin threader, bodkin, whip finisher and a hair stacker for 40 bucks. I was dissapointed in the made in India vice and also the bobbin. the other tools seem to be ok. notice that i said the two most important pieces were not very good. I wish i could say what to buy but right now I cannot afford to replace them so i just deal with it.

I am sorry my advice probably is not much help. I just wanted to pass along What not to do. I think you can proably find a decent one for under $100

Brian

You are correct, Brian! A good "Danvise" is around $75.00...

I saw a plug for a Griffin Odyssey vise in the "Beginner's Guide to Fly Tying" I found online, heard anything about it?

I purchased a $25 entry level vise that has and still does serve me well. The head swivels, the post piviots and it handles everything from jigs, treble hooks of all sizes and streamer hooks, etc.

It really depends what brand vise you purchased, but in general, don't buy a cheap vice unless it's a expensive vise on sale.   My vise was usually $80, but I got it on sale for around $50.  I don't use it alot so I'm expecting it to last many more years.

Cabelas, Bass Pro Shops, and Gander Mt. usually have some good priced vises.  You could try Dick's, but they will probably be more expensive.

I would suggest the dhThompson Pro Vise for $40. Basic, no frills lever vise. It's a decent enough vise down to about size 20. Midge jaws for sizes 18 - 32 are available for $17. This is a 'clamp-on' style vise. If you want a weighted platform, it's another $35. I used mine for about 15 years before upgrading to a Regal, now it's in my travel kit.

I would suggest staying away from the rotating vises(like the Griffin Odyssey) for your first vise as the fly patterns you are going to learn on are very simple and you don't need the added complexity of a rotating vise. I would also suggest not trying to tie very small flies (like those 24's) right away. Too frustrating if you don't have the dexterity yet.

Good Luck, it does get addicting.

I'd go to as many fly shops as you can in your area and see how things work. So you have a better idea of what you want in style and functions.

If possible check out a shop that carries Renzetti. I've had my "Renzetti Traveler" for a few years, think I paid around $145 for it. I understand that's above your intended $100 budget, but they are worth it. By the time you get a cheap vise or two, then decide you're ready for a good vice, you've already wasted the difference in cash. Maybe you can get one second hand online...all parts are replaceable so if you find one that happens to be missing a knob or something, you can get a new replacement part.

A vice that works well for "you" makes fly tying much more fun. I know there are other companies that make good vices. I stopped with the one I have, as it does everything I've wanted to tie for from stream to salt.

Good luck and have fun!

-Cowboy