Thanks for both of your replies.Basshunter55 wrote: ↑Wed Sep 27, 2023 12:22 pmI like using # 5 connection link stainless steel
I also use Wey wire form in 525 and 375 stainless steel
I keep them all in bulk. I have custom aluminum molds I had made so its easy to pour a few hundred up of both sizes when needed.
I was afraid that the connector wire I found was too weak, so I wound up heating the eyes of my 5/0 Mustad and Victory jig hook until they are red hot, letting them cool in the air, and then using a metal awl to open the eyes to receive the chatter blades.
I pour my Arkie jig heads with the opened eyes at somewhere around 700 degrees.
Once they are cool enough to trim and file, I powder coat them and bake them at 350 for 30+ minutes.
I don't know if the hot lead, or the baking at 350, tempers the hook eyes, but I am able to add the blade and bend them back closed with any breakage, and the eyes seem strong. They are hard to bend shut.