Chris Beech introduces a budget-priced fly-tying vice.

Looking for an affordable, good quality fly-tying vice? Renzetti has earned its reputation by machining some of the finest in-line, true rotary vices on the market today. Now Renzetti has introduced the Apprentise, a traditional style fixed head (non-rotary) vice for hook sizes #28 to #1/0. Available in C-Clamp models only, this vice is light-weight and suitable even for the travelling fly-tier.

I tied a few flies with the Apprentise and found the head angle was comfortable and allowed good access for smaller hook sizes. It was easy to adjust by simply screwing the nose cone in or out, and it held hooks firmly—I had no trouble tying small #16 dries up to #2 saltwater flies.

One of the beauties of this design lies in its simplicity. With few moving parts, the Apprentise will provide years of trouble free service. Best of all, it is a quality tool that won’t break the bank. At a RRP of $199.95, it is one of the most affordable quality vices on the market today. Trade enquiries to Mayfly Tackle 03 9899 0034 or email mayfly@bigpond.net.au