Super Mantis

Kryston Super Mantis

(Hook-length material)

In the world of braids designed primarily for hook-lengths, a few manufacturers remain content to assume they already produce the most effective materials available - rather misguidedly believing there is little room for improvement. Trouble is, many anglers have a habit of following the trend and may inadvertently remain unaware of natural technological progression. Talking of natural progression; how many anglers are aware of what simply has to be the most Hi-tech hook-length material currently available - 'Super Mantis', by Kryston Angling Products?

Those of you already familiar with its sister braid, Snake-bite, will correctly assume that 'Mantis' is again a coated braid. However, unlike its stiffer and thicker stable-mate, Super Mantis offers nylon and braid users the best of both worlds.

What we get is a braid (encapsulated in a fourteen stage coating) that with its superbly camouflaged outer shell left intact, behaves almost exactly like a mono of similar diameter. Yet, removing the coating along any of its length exposes a wonderfully supple and durable inner braid - offering many forms of advanced presentation, such as combi-links and hinged rigs, etc. Any rig can be effortlessly tied within seconds using the individual rig guide that accompanies every Kryston braid.

Super Mantis comes in both gravel brown (Mantis Gold) and weed green, and is available in 15 and 25.Lb breaking strain. To maximise abrasion resistance of the naturally low diameters, I recommend the 25.Lb.

Price. £12.45 for 20 Mts.

My verdict. Awesome stuff. Used in the clearest of conditions, over gravel or next to weed, the Barbel haven't a clue it's there. Super Mantis will remain effective for many years you come. Don't get caught out by lagging behind - Do yourself a huge favour and buy some!

The Works

The Works is the Kryston product catalogue. It not only contains detailed information on the full Kryston range, but also has a useful centre page guide on which braids to use for specific conditions. The catalogue's well worth an inexpensive look and can be obtained by enclosing a SAE (minimum size A5). Send to - Kryston Advanced Angling, Bolton Enterprise Centre, Washington Street, Bolton. BL3 5EY.

Steve Stayner