whats the difference

[horses50]

what is the difference between pine, fox, grey squirrel fur, i am looking for the really spikey stuff thank you

[arkle]

If it's dubbing you're after, they mostly use grey in the pre-made mixes as it's the most commonly available. Try google images to see pics of the different species.

[maharg]

All very spicky. I use fox squirrel the most, generally needs a touch of binder though as it doesnt dub that well, though it can be done.

[horses50]

Thanks for the replies i have been useing hares ear dubbing for my thorax but just wanted to experiment with the squirrel.

[arkle]

Nigel Thompson of Lakeland reckons it's his all[time favourite dubbing

[horses50]

I am of the opinion that if everybody tied lets say a ptn the same way fish will soon wise up i know the original has been catching fish for many decades and will do so for many more but i like to substitute certain parts of any fly with different materials.

[christy27]

I used to use hare for most things spiky but then discovered squirrel. I bought a full skin and it looks like it's going to last forever. Makes really good looking dubs. Wouldn't use anything else for spiky things now.

Chris.

[horses50]

Chris do you mix the squirrel with anything else, the reason i ask if i have just got myself a coffee grinder and i am dying to try it outWhich type of squirrel is it pine,fox,or grey.

[johnclayton]

Fox squirrel is excellent for dubbing with and is the most spikey, pine squirrel is a smaller and finer as are the others.
Best bet is to buy a whole skin then you get full range of colours and hair.
Nigel Thompson at Lakeland flytying does full and I think half skins, but other fly tying materials sites offer similar.