Over three years of development and the last two years spent thoroughly field testing prototype samples has culminated in the launch of a range of hooks that we believe sets a new standard in strength and point durability.
New manufacturing techniques including both high temperature and cryogenic tempering have produced significantly stronger hooks with more durable, long life points.
Cryogenic tempering is a process used to improve the molecular structure in steel which in turn reduces stress and improves strength and wear resistance. It is used in many disciplines with Formula 1 engine parts being a classic example.
Bench tests on initial samples proved to us that the new tempering processes combined with improved designs and heavy forging resulted in hooks that were 30-40% stronger than previous E-S-P hooks – in the same wire gauge. So rather than having to improve strength by simply increasing wire gauge, new manufacturing processes have allowed us to maintain optimum wire gauges for each size which allow for fine, ultra-sharp needle points which are now more durable than ever.
Over an exhaustive two-year field testing period where the hooks were used by around 15 independent specialist carp anglers plus ESP consultants Terry Hearn, Kev Hewitt and Martin Bowler, feedback has been wholly positive from everyone. In fact we have barely heard of a point turning over let alone a hook gaping out!
Over those two years a serious amount of big carp have been caught on the new hooks from a wide variety of waters and every angler who has used them came back wanting more!
Initially, there are three patterns in the range comprising the Classic, Gripper and Stiff Rigger.
Classic
This hook is a result of taking the existing Big-T pattern and improving and refining it to create a better, stronger shape. The Classic features a longer, finer straight point which is slightly more inclined towards the shank. This fine ultra-sharp point combined with the slick PTFE Teflon coating and micro barb ensures excellent hook holds. The 13-degree in-turned eye provides excellent anti-eject properties and is a highly versatile pattern for a wide range of presentations.
Available in barbed sizes 4, 6, 7, 8, 10.
Gripper
This pattern is the culmination of striving to design the perfect all round beaked point carp hook. The Gripper was subject to various design tweaks through the development process and the end result was well worth waiting for! The super fine, long curved point is the perfect shape and during testing, provided exceptionally secure hook holds. Other features include a 10-degree in-turned eye (slightly less than the Classic to allow for the inclined beaked point), heavy forging, micro barb and of course, the slick PTFE Teflon coating.
Available in barbed sizes 4, 5, 6, 7, 8.
Stiff Rigger
This legendary hook pattern has been further refined and improved to make it the go-to hook for hinged stiff rig and chod rig presentations. Compared with its predecessor the Mk-2, the super sharp point is longer and finer and more inclined towards the shank for a stronger shape. The point is also in-line with the 13-degree out-turned eye so all the force is straight along the point section of the hook, rather than across the gape – making them incredibly strong. Heavy forging and PTFE Teflon coating plus no discernible increase in wire gauge but with superior strength makes this the perfect pop-up hook!
Available in barbed sizes 4, 5, 6, 7, 8.