Fly Tying Lamp

[jpbfly]

I'd like to buy a tying lamp...any advice guys?

[Jimmie]

Ott Lite is known for true colors. I've got this one, and couldn't believe this sale price (slightly more than the cost of a replacement bulb). To be honest I don't use the magnifier lens, but so what at that price.
OttLiteŽ High Definition Jupiter Magnifier Lamp*: desk & table lamps*: lighting*: Shop | Joann.com

Something happened since I posted. They had it at approx. $44.99. Now it's showing $107 which I wouldn't pay.

This is now down to $29.99 from $269.00. May have to check this out for myself locally. Link: http://www.joann.com/joann/catalog/p...en=25014225139

[Hardyreels]

JP,

Although there are many that are made specifically for the fly tying market I have been using what is known commonly as a Jewelers or Watchmakers Lamp for many years. They are an adjustable lamp with a 4" 4X magnifier right on the head, all one piece. Here in the states they sell at 29.99 - 49.99 depending on the maker. Below is a picture of the one I have here in AK. The picture shows the light head and magnifier glass. Go have a look at a Lighting Store and ask for a Jewelers Lamp.

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[jpbfly]

Thanks Jimmie and Ard....I'm a bit reluctant to buy one with a magnifier ....I'm afraid not to be able to tie without thengoing to think it over.

[dhayden]

I have this one:

Giraffe Lamps: Call us at 800-282-5267

It's ok, the light is a little too close to me when I tie and I can feel the heat and it's a little glarey.

As for the magnifier... that's a must have for me now. Especially for LBB (Little Bitty *******s) flies

I'd like to see this one:

Feather-Craft Fly Fishing | Fly Fishing Rods, Reels, Waders, Flies, Fly Tying Materials | Sage Rods | Simms Waders | Since 1955

[FlyBum]

Ott light or other light with a "Natural Light" bulb. I actually use two on my tying desk, one is very big and heavy and also has a magnifier and the other is one of the portable battery or ac powered Ott lights. I've discovered I like a lot of light when tying flies. If I could get one of those 6' fluorescent fixtures and fit it with "Natual Light" bulbs and hang it somewhat low over my tying desk I think then I be in tying heaven.

---------- Post added at 01:11 PM ---------- Previous post was at 01:07 PM ----------

Dave, that one in the Feather Craft link is the big one I have and its very nice, but its not very portable.

[Hardyreels]

Tom,

I actually have an old jewelers lamp with three miniature florescent tubes in the head. It has remained in CO. storage ever since I moved here. I use a 40 watt spot bulb in the lamp I pictured here and it seems just right.

JP,

Once you tie a #18 with the lens I have you'll never go back. When you see these pictures of tiny flies that are every bit perfect in their proportions and finish I highly suspect they are tied under a magnifier lens.

[FrankB2]

I'm 100% with Ard regarding the magnifying lens. Peak sells a lens on a flex stem, and it fits into the base's accessory hole. It's a fantastic aid in tying, and I use it for most flies #14 and smaller. I'll even use it for larger flies when forming a head. Flies that look good under magnification look great to the naked eye.

I have a cheapo lamp ($12) that I bought from Ikea at least 6 years ago. It has a small halogen bulb, and I'm still waiting for it to need replacing. I would like to try one of the McKenzie type lamps. I have viewed flies through that lamp in shops, and its small size is appealing. I see plenty of exhibition tyers using them, so they can't be too bad......

[Frank Whiton]

Hi Jp,

I have the Giraffe light and magnifier set up. the magnifier has no frame and works very well. Both the light and the magnifier have long flexible shafts that allows the light to be in any position. The light is built so the heat does not heat on the cover in case you accidentally touch it.

I remove the bases that the shaft fasten to and mounted them on the desk. They are quick disconnect so you can easily remove or place in a different mounting position with extra bases. This is not a cheap option but they are extremely well built and heavy duty. You can see in the photo that the light can be placed well away from the vise.

Frank

Giraffe Light Mag Combination

[stimmy7]

Joni posted this link a couple of months ago- relatively inexpensive, and she said it worked quite well

Rockler LED Work Light with Magnifying Head - Rockler Woodworking Tools