I always used to buy the cheapo 3.99 pair of nippers from the fly shop until I was given a pair of the Abel's as a gift. The problem with the less expensive nippers was that my simms retractor would always open and dump them in the stream. They would work fine for about 4 or 5 trips and start to go dull. If you're a weekend warrior they will work just fine and there would be no justification in spending the 50 dollars on the Abel's. I enjoy the fact that the Abel's easily attach to a lanyard which allows me to wear them around my neck, completely eliminating the chance that I lose them due to those retractors opening. They cut great even after 100 days on the water. Bottom line, they ARE worth it to me. I've had plenty of trips with them, no issues in dulling, and yes...they are aesthetically pleasing to the eye. I'd be hesitant to pay the 50 dollars but only because I'm not rich by any means. I believe that you should never buy a cheap tool, especially if it involves your trade or passion. And yes, I do realize that just because something is expensive doesn't mean it's great. However, the Abel nips have been great to me. I would highly recommend them.
