This maybe a silly question but how do i know which wire size to choose for multiple purposes ie copper johns, ribbing on nymphs and wooly buggers etc.
I use every size of Ultra Wire except BRASSIE.
For ribbing I use the MEDIUM size unless the fly is smaller like 14-20 in which case I go with SMALL. I use the EXTRA SMALL for really small Brassies.
If you are trying to only have to buy one size I’d pick MEDIUM.
damn i just bought brassie size! is it still usable?
Of course it is, it is just a few thousandths thicker.
Heck, you may like it better for ribbing since it is heavier. You won’t know till you try it.
Have fun, it is a terrific product with all kind of uses because of the myriad of colors available.
Thank you 
I like to use size small, but then again, I use it for lots of different applications like making dubbing brushes etc. As a point of interest to some, the Orvis site still has Ultra Wire in many colors on sale for $1.00 per spool which is a terrific price. I like the Ultra Wire because I find that it is a bit softer and less likley to break at the worst time.
Jim Smith
I like to use 2 sizes at the same time - medium in one color and either small or brassie size in another (brown/copper, black/red, etc). Gives a nice ribbed effect.
Regards,
ScottP
Try this link:
http://www.flyfisherman.com/ftb/jbbarrflies/index5.html
John Barr tells the exact sizes of wire for the different sizes of hooks he uses to tie his Copper John.
Joe
Here is the order of sizes, small to big
- Extra small
- Small
- Brassie
- Medium
- Large
I use extra small to rib buggers in 10’s and 12’s. For 8’s and 6’s I use small.
To tie a copper john or other nymph, I use brassie and small for 16’s.
For 14’s the small and brassie work well.
For 12’s the brassie works well, some medium looks good to.
One of the posts above mentions mixing colors and sizes, say a brassie red with a medium black. He got it right on. It is “yeah baby.”
Bob
Thank you to all that have helped me