In this section: Intro Eyes - Bead chain - Cast/dumbbell Beads Cones Tying them on Contacts	Rows of eyes I use a lot of bead chain eyes in my patterns. They have several advantages - but unfortunately several disadvantages too. Like many other fly tying materials these bead chains are not made for tying flies, but are used for several other purposes amongst which holding bath tub plugs, roller ball pens and keys are the most common. The chains should be widely available, and most hardware stores or locksmiths have them. But getting them in the smallest sizes can be a problem. Many fly shops pack small pieces of chain of appropriate sizes, These are unfortunately sold at some hefty prices, but can be a last resort.
Bead chains: inexpensive and easy to use. Adds weight and good looks. They come in many different sizes.
Flies with eyes: Magnus Bjarke Fair Fly Crazy Dane Flies with beads: Flashback Prince  Nymph Bead Head Scud Goldkopf nymph Flies with cones: Coney flies FMJNM Magnus cone Further reading: The history   of the bead head Bead chain eyes Monofilament eyes Pearl eyes	Some advantages of these eyes are: Very eye like Shiny and stainless Inexpensive Easy to handle Adds a little weight but not too much The disadvantages are: Sometimes too light Often has sharp edges that can cut tying thread