I believe you exceeded the budget so instead of a 'sale' and a happy customer, you created an unhappy customer going home empty handed.
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Ah, so this is just a thought experiment. Thought it was a real question...nevermind...
Not knowing what exactly what his/her needs are in a vague opening statement.....My list is a starting point. A shopping list that would be molded to an individuals needs as you discuss things in the store. :)
I would ask the person what flies they usually fish and which ones they wanted to tie. The materials list would be based on the five to ten flies they most wanted to learn (depending on how much could be used for multiple patterns). I would then recommend the best vice they could afford while still getting a bobbin, two scissors and a hackle pliers. A good enough bodkin is easily made at home as is a hair stacker. By the time they are proficient in tying those flies they will know what they want in other tools and materials.
The more I think about this, the sillier it sounds.
I would guess that most of us started tying with few materials........a decent vise......some hooks......a pair of scissors.....etc.
I began tying nymphs and added new materials each week or so. I didn't expect to have everything I needed all at once to tie everything imaginable.
I doubt the fellow is going to be tying comparaduns, parachutes, divided hackle tip winged dries, etc. right off the bat.
Put all he can afford into a decent vise, a few other tools, some hooks, dubbing, chenille, soft hackle feathers, and something for wing cases and show him how/where to watch YouTube videos of basic, easy flies.
I would have handed him a bottle of powerbait. If he was that inflexible, maybe he needs to do rethink his hobby choice.
I used to hate dealing with that type of customer when I worked at the fly shop.
I agree as a personal approach. I began in the same manner, by recommendation of my initial instructor. I bought the best vise I could afford, solid tools...and the materials to tie the patterns and techniques I had just learned. I then bought materials for the new patterns I wanted....until I had grown enough to dump money on hackle and such. I still have those same tools and vise as well....he must of been on to something. LOL
Agree! Now, let's get specific and see what you come up with. As stated, the shop has a very wide array of tools, materials, etc. What 'specific' tools would you suggest this man buy? Remember, he's at your store, standing in front of you, and expecting your 'expertise' to guide him along Right Then and There. You do not have an hour or more to rummage through catalogs or hours to ponder your decision. Identify the tools and materials, along with the prices and let's see what you come up with.
Beginner fly tier who fishes for trout in rivers and streams, usually uses a 3, 4 or 5 weight. Lives in the NE and fishes waters in NY, NJ, and PA.
If we are not trying to build a complete Kit, then here is my recommendation to a new tyer.
Vise Regal Inex: $140
Whip Finish:$4 Materilli style
Hackle Pliers:$2 Standard English style
Scissors: $5 3" Micro
Bobbin: $6 Standard Tube
Hair Stacker: $8 Medium
All tools are metal, but not Brand name. Store brand or generic normally, but all metal/brass.
$165 Total Tools
That leaves $85 to discuss the top 10 patterns he currently fishes, and determine what materials will be needed.