classicflytyer,
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I tried tying some size 18 PTs using wire supplied by Nick that was extemely thin and broke very easily. I spooled it and tried using a bobbin but it still broke.
I am not sure how to gauge "extremely thin", but as a guide: for #22-28 hooks I use .002" wire. For #16-20 hooks .004". For #10-14 hooks .006"
The heaviest size given I have used in a bobbin holder, but prefer to wrap a section of wire by hand. This avoids the excess twisting of the wire which comes from wrapping with a bobbin holder.
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The typical copper wire that I buy in fly shops and that I use for ribbing is much thicker and not red.
Correct. Way too heavy, and never meant to be used at the 'thread' to tie with.
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Other than taking apart the vacuum cleaner and motor where can we find the thin red wire.
Many small electric/electric appliances have suitable size wires, but not too many have the required color.
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Is there a source (electrical supply?) that sells this type of red wire.
Hmmm... not sure why you want 'red' http://www.flyanglersonline.com/bb/wink.gif
The color to go for to tie 'proper' Sawyer PT nymphs is a rich dark brown, in essence a copy of the dark reddish-brown found in the center tail feathers of a male European pheasant.
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What is it called? Used for?
Enamelled copper wire is how it is routinely described.
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What size do you recommend that does not break as easily.
The sizes I use I have listed above. The break control is up to the tier. I would suggest you wrap by hand, not using a bobbin holder, for all but the heaviest size.
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BTW, I read the PT instructions on your site. The wire I was used was thin like Danville Spider Web and not as thick as shown in the picture of your PT nymph.
The image in the PT section on my page at present holds a pretty dated image. here is an image, and a sample fly, I am more content with. I suggest you use this as your sample on result, and wire/hook proportions.
http://www.danica.com/flytier/zoetemeer/sawyer_pt.jpg
Cheers,
Hans W
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