I like the MP tool more for the tables to prep material to go in the clip, than the clip itself. They make it easy to fold cdc or other feathers over, and fold in dubbing, flash etc. with it. I have tried to make a replica out of cheaper stuff, like gluing several old fashioned clothes pins edge to edge, but it didn't work very well. A bulldog works just fine if you're only trying to capture one side of the feather, but the table is invaluable when using both sides.