Six steps to tying small flies with large partridge hackle

[fflutterffly]

I am trying to tie down to 22, the smallest I can see, but I'm having trouble with the starling feathers and the hackle pliers. I am trying to use the ultra light pliers that look like a tear drop, but the tines don't seem to face up. Since they are inexpensive I have tried to "bend" the tips together. That hasn't worked. Can anyone please suggest a pliers that are machined to perfection that can hold a tiny feather.

[Old Hat]

fflutterffly,
I have used just about every kind of hackle plier out there. Everyone has there favorites, mine are by far these:

http://reviews.orvis.com/7532/759Q/reviews.htm

They have a very nice fine tip, and the thumb and finger plates are great to keep control.

[DUBBN]

Oldhat, I have spent the past hour practicing your technique. I am by no means quick with it, but I am pleased with how my patterns are turning out. I am tying 14's right now, but will start working my way down to 18's by the end of the day.

Great tip sir,

Wayne

[Old Hat]

Thanks Wayne, good to hear it is working for you.