Here is an Automatic Bobbin that allows and compliments the full utility that Rotary Vises provide and functions with most plastic thread fly tying thread spools. Although the video does not show the newer
(less expensive) Plastic Model, I have 2 of them and they work well for me.
I have had one for a decade or more now too. I like it a lot.
This is cool, I may have to order one. Do you have the metal one or the plastic one? The metal one seems like it would last longer and is probably the better way to ago I imagine.
Hi, Chris. Mine are the Nylon (I believe) ones and I do not see durability as being an issue. I did not buy them both, my #2 was a guilt from a friend. Neither of mine have the ceramic lined thread tubes but, I have never cut a grove in any of my other bobbins from tying flies either.
The one really nice thing about the metal model is the one-finger spring reset to reset the spring tension when you have used up the 24” of thread tension travel. With the Nylon model, you have to pull the spool out far enough so the tapered pin will clear the spool spokes to let the spring unwind, which is pretty much a two-hand operation but not all that big of a deal in the total scheme of things.
I also believe the Nylon model is a little more ergonomic and more comfortable to use, so it is kind of a toss up between the two…Karl.
Hi Karl,
New customer have sent me a link to the forum in which you made a post on the Ekich Bobbin. Thank you very much for your support - it worked.
In comparing the two series Ekich Bobbin: A series all metal and S series plastic frame ( you are right it is a nylon with 33% fibre fill for rigidity), you mention that S series needs two hand spring reset, unlike A series singlehandedly. Both frame have the same extension bellow the housing to push against in order to lift the spool off the drive pin.
Lubricating the rubber ring and inside of some tight spools ( like UNI), will make that separation smooth and easy. Please take a moment and revisit my web site and take also a look at page FAQ.
Thank you again and happy tying
Faruk
On the spring tension release, I was in error. Both the metal and plastic models work the same way - the thread spool needs to be push/pulled out slightly and reseated to release the thread tension, which can be accomplished with only one hand but, you may find it quicker and easier to do with both hands. And actually, the release can be done with your little finger.
USER GUIDE En Francais Nihongo
The Ekich Ultimate Bobbin description & operation
Description
This bobbin is composed of two major subassemblies: the housing assembly and the dual wire frame assembly.
The Housing assembly is composed of a black anodized aluminum housing, which contains the constant force spring and the clutch mechanism, in addition to the brass rotary table which has a small drive pin positioned off center. Extending from the center of the housing is a brass center post which holds the bearing with the rubber ring.
Operation
The Ekich Bobbin is designed around the constant force spring concept. This force (33 g or 1.1
oz) will balance the combined weight of the bobbin & a standard spool of thread, & holds the bobbin stationary at a place chosen by tyer. The constant force spring will dispense a desired length of thread and stay stationary at a chosen spot, or, when moved toward the tying point, recover the dispensed thread under constant tension. This constant tension is sufficient for most wrapping and will not create slack in the thread. Thread tension can be increased by hand palming the free end of the thread spool.
When a spool of thread is placed on the rotary table, it is held in place by contact between the rubber ring and the inner arbor surface of the spool. The
drive pin engages against one of the spokes that forms the empty chamber of the spool. Pulling the thread rotates the spool in a clockwise direction storing energy in the spring/clutch mechanism. The spring dispenses 60 cm (24") of thread. At this point, it is fully wound and there is a noticeable increase in thread tension. The spring needs to be reset by lifting the spool just enough to disengage the drive pin. This reset is also required prior to thread cutting. The amount of thread left outside the tube during the resetting process will remain there without being rewound.
The reset operation can also be performed single handedly.
To do so, grasp the free end of spool with the thumb, index and middle fingers, press against the bottom frame loop extension with the ring finger and pull/lift the spool slightly away from the rotary table. Press the spool back onto the rotary table and you’re all set to continue tying.
I just got mine and so far I really like it. It’s totally unnecessary until you use it. Makes tying just a bit more enjoyable and probably faster once I adapt. Does take a slight change in habits as you hold the bobbin. Have to occasionally apply pressure like a clutch with certain moves.
Hi Chris. When you want to apply more pressure with the thread than the bobbin supplies, placing your little finger tip on the outside, inside, or against the thread wound on the spool is very quick and easy to do. After tying with this bobbin for a while, it just becomes subconscious and you will do it automatically with no conscious thought required.
Out of curiosity, did you get the metal or nylon model? And what are your thoughts on the model you bought after using it? Do you have any regrets or recommendations as to which model to buy?..Karl.
I did the metal one with the ceramic tube. I like it so far. I do seem to have difficulty getting some spools of thread on it like Veevus. I need to pick up some silicon grease and see if that works better like he recommends. I like the feel of the metal one. I’ll have to shoot a video using it and do a more in depth review. I finally bought a macro lens so I’ll have to shoot some fly tying videos just for fun.
I did a quick review video showing the bobbin in action if anyone is interested in it: https://youtu.be/9CWOZZpE04w
Here is the video from @cc121 for those who don’t want to switch to the YouTube website.
