The Nail knot is arguably one of the most famous ( or infamous) knots in the world of fishing. Per its namesake, the nail knot was initially tied with an actual nail. Over the years, the nail has been replaced with a modified and designed into a convenient, compact, and versatile tool, making it much easier to tie. It is the only knot (that we know of) that requires a tool to tie it properly, and there are a few of them out there.
We realize there are ways to tie the nail knot without a tool. In fact, for those of you who want to learn how to do it without a tool, we have a tutorial on our blog (click here). That said, it is much easier to tie with a tool. You probably whip finish with your fingers, too, huh?
Today, we reviewed one of the newest iterations of nail knot tools from Loon Outdoors.
Loon Ergo Knot Tool
The first impression is it is a well-thought-out, simple-looking tool and very basic, in a good way. Consistent with all the other Loon Outdoors streamside tools, it has an ergonomic handle, making it easy to grip and providing excellent line control. It’s also the ideal size. It is small enough where it takes up minimal space, and the high-vis Yellow handle makes it easy to find in the bottom of your pack. For those who would like to carry it on your lanyard, you’ll need to get a zinger or split ring. It would be super slick if they just had one on there.
Tying Nail Knots
In tying a nail knot, it works just like any other nail knot tool you’ve probably ever used. The Loon ties nail knots well from backing to fly line and fly line to leader connections. We had some challenges with a thicker fly line section. It took a little finagling to get our fly line in there. For the most part, tying nail knots were easy and smooth. The Ergo handle does make a difference. With some other popular nail knot tools, you can snell hooks too. The Loon Ergo Nail Knot tool is not suitable for selling hooks, or tying on to hooks was not as easy as other tools on the market. Of course, that might be because we’re so used to the other tool.
Cons:
- Needs an addtional split ring to carry in the field with a lanyard.
- Only good for line to line connections. Tying knots on flies or hooks is more challenging.
- Seems to have a smaller groove where thicker line is harder to slide in.
- Snelling a hook is more challenging than the Tie-Fast.
- Higher price point than other nail knot tools.
Pros:
- The Ergo handle makes a difference. Easy to grip and good line control.
- Ties nail knots easily.
- Perfect size.
- High Visiblity and ashtetically pleasing.
Overall it is a solid knot tool, making nail knots easy to tie. The Ergo grip does make a difference, and It is cool looking. It will make a great addition to all your other streamside tools. The only thing that would make it easier is if it included a split ring already on it. Please go check it out at www.loonoutdoors.com and purchase it at your local fly shop.
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