Let’s Dive into Boone Bait Deluxe Crimping Tool
The Boone Bait Deluxe Crimping Tool promises to be a heavy-duty solution for anglers needing to create secure connections for leaders and rigs. With its stainless steel handles, carbon steel head, and multiple crimp sizes, it aims to be a versatile tool for various fishing scenarios. For years, I’ve relied on a mishmash of tools for crimping, often improvising with less-than-ideal results. This has led to frustrating failures on the water, including lost fish due to crimps that failed under pressure.
I was specifically looking for a tool that offered consistent crimping pressure across a range of line and sleeve sizes, built tough enough to withstand saltwater environments, and comfortable to use for extended periods. I considered the Lindy Fish Handling Glove Crimper and the Got-cha E-Z Crimper, but the Boone Bait Deluxe Crimping Tool seemed to offer a better balance of versatility and durability at its price point. My initial impressions were cautiously optimistic, drawn to the promise of stainless steel construction and multiple crimping positions.
The tool felt solid in my hand, hinting at robust construction. However, the true test would be on the water.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boone Bait Deluxe Crimping Tool to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Boone Bait Deluxe Crimping Tool was a shark fishing trip off the coast of Florida. This meant dealing with heavy mono leaders, large hooks, and the need for absolutely reliable connections. The salt spray was relentless, and the fish were strong.
Using the tool to create leaders in the boat, I found the different crimping positions intuitive and effective for the various sleeve sizes. The Boone Bait Deluxe Crimping Tool provided a much cleaner and more secure crimp compared to my old plier-based system. There were no cracked sleeves or frayed lines to be seen.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including multiple offshore trips and countless leader constructions, the Boone Bait Deluxe Crimping Tool has proven to be a reliable addition to my tackle box. The stainless steel handles show no signs of corrosion despite constant exposure to saltwater. The carbon steel head maintains its shape and effectiveness, even after crimping dozens of heavy-duty sleeves.
While cleaning is simple – a quick rinse with fresh water and a light oiling – it’s essential to prevent any buildup of salt or grime. Compared to my previous methods, the Boone Bait Deluxe Crimping Tool offers far greater consistency and confidence in the strength of my connections. It outperforms my expectations for a tool in this price range.
Breaking Down the Features of Boone Bait Deluxe Crimping Tool
Specifications
The Boone Bait Deluxe Crimping Tool boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance. The carbon steel chrome-plated tool head is designed for strength and precision. The stainless steel handles ensure corrosion resistance in harsh marine environments.
The tool features four crimping sizes: 0.1-0.5mm, 0.5-1.0mm, 1.0-2.0mm, and 2.2mm. These sizes accommodate a wide range of line and sleeve diameters. The specified crimping sizes are vital because they dictate the tool’s versatility in creating leaders for various fishing applications.
Performance & Functionality
The Boone Bait Deluxe Crimping Tool excels in its primary function: creating strong and reliable crimped connections. The leverage provided by the handles allows for consistent pressure, resulting in secure crimps every time. While it takes a few practice crimps to get the feel for each sleeve size, the learning curve is relatively short.
The only minor weakness is the lack of a built-in line cutter, which would be a convenient addition. Overall, it meets and even exceeds my expectations for a crimping tool in this category.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Boone Bait Deluxe Crimping Tool is commendable. The stainless steel handles offer a comfortable grip and a sense of durability. The non-slip grips provide a secure hold, even when hands are wet or covered in fish slime.
The tool is relatively lightweight, reducing fatigue during extended use. The ergonomic design minimizes hand strain.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its stainless steel handles and carbon steel head, the Boone Bait Deluxe Crimping Tool is built to withstand the rigors of saltwater fishing. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to maintain its performance and prevent corrosion. With proper care, this tool should last for many years.
The simple design makes repairs straightforward, should the need arise.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Boone Bait Deluxe Crimping Tool comes as a standalone tool without any included accessories. There are no customization options available, such as interchangeable jaws or handle grips. However, the tool is compatible with a wide range of commercially available crimp sleeves and leader materials.
Pros and Cons of Boone Bait Deluxe Crimping Tool
Pros
- Durable Stainless Steel Handles: Resists corrosion in harsh marine environments.
- Multiple Crimping Sizes: Accommodates a wide range of line and sleeve diameters.
- Comfortable Non-Slip Grips: Ensures a secure hold, even when wet.
- Consistent Crimping Pressure: Creates strong and reliable connections.
- Relatively Lightweight: Reduces hand fatigue during extended use.
Cons
- Lack of Built-In Line Cutter: Would be a convenient addition.
- No Customization Options: Limited personalization.
Who Should Buy Boone Bait Deluxe Crimping Tool?
The Boone Bait Deluxe Crimping Tool is perfect for avid anglers who frequently create their own leaders and rigs. This includes saltwater fishermen targeting large game species. It is also suitable for freshwater anglers who need to create durable connections for leaders and tippets.
Beginners who only occasionally need to crimp connections might consider a more basic and less expensive option. Those who require highly specialized crimping capabilities, such as for wire leaders, might need to explore higher-end tools. A must-have accessory is a selection of high-quality crimp sleeves in various sizes.
Conclusion on Boone Bait Deluxe Crimping Tool
The Boone Bait Deluxe Crimping Tool is a solid and reliable tool that delivers on its promise of creating strong crimped connections. The stainless steel construction and multiple crimping sizes make it a versatile choice for a variety of fishing applications. While the lack of a built-in line cutter and customization options are minor drawbacks, the overall performance and durability justify the price.
I would confidently recommend the Boone Bait Deluxe Crimping Tool to any angler looking for a dependable crimping solution. Invest in your gear, invest in your success. Get the Boone Bait Deluxe Crimping Tool and fish with confidence.