Alan,

Didn't mean it was working for us.

It's certainly working for the hook makers. If it wasn't, which would mean they were having trouble selling hooks, then they'd change it. Until that happens, the marketers of fly tying hooks will continue doing things the way they always have.

I don't see a change coming in the future. No one in the industry WANTS to make it simpler. To them, the concept of 'alternative hook' means they lose business. Odd sizings and confusing nomenclature mean you need to buy their particular hook to get what you want.

Or, you can do what I do and buy a few standard hooks in various sizes and lengths and invest in a good pair of round nosed pliers....

Buddy