ESP Cryogen Hooks (Barbed)

Over three years of development and the last two years spent thoroughly field testing prototype samples has culminated in the launch of a new range of Cryogen 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 of 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.

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 Tufflon 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.

Para-Point This is the absolute ‘enforcer’ of the range. The medium length shank, with an almost crystal bend and inclined point, make this an incredibly strong shape, further enhanced by the heavy forging and Cryogen tempering process. The long, fine needle sharp point, further enhanced by the slick Tufflon coating ensures excellent hook holds and the straight eye allows this pattern to be highly versatile as a bottom bait or pop up hook, with or without a kicker. The straight eye makes it especially effective for a Tungsten Loaded ‘D-Rig’ where the straight eye acts to increase the gape. The ‘Para’ has already become a real favourite amongst our testers and looks set to be the ‘go to’ all-rounder for years to come

Available in barbed sizes 4, 5, 6, 7, 8.

Curve Shanx This is the same classic curve pattern previously known as the ESP Raptor, but this new range has been made even better by stepping up the wire gauge in each size and giving them the Cryogen treatment. These Curves are now around 25% stronger than their predecessors while still retaining long fine needle sharp points which are now extra durable. These are highly effective in a whole variety of rig presentations (perfect for the Ronnie Rig) and their quick turning, anti-eject shape combined with a needle sharp point ensures exceptional hook holds.

Available in barbed sizes 4, 6, 7, 8, 10

Grip Rigger As the name suggests, this is an amalgam of the best features of the Cryogen Gripper and Stiff Rigger, which is almost unfair on the carp! The shape is that of the Stiff Rigger, with the fine curved ‘sticky’ point of the Gripper.  We have been getting asked for a while for a chod / stiff rigger hook with an ultra-sharp beaked point and have answered those pleas with a hook that has even converted a few straight point devotees through the testing process!  Although hook choice is often down to personal preference rather than exact science, a beaked point can provide extra assurance especially in weedy or snaggy conditions, with unbeatable hook holds – and so they have proved through the testing process

Available in barbed sizes 4, 5, 6, 7, 8.

Trig-Hammer A new long shank pattern that has proved outstanding during field testing. Ultra-sharp, long fine needle points combined with an aggressive shape that achieves incredibly secure hook holds. Especially affective on Ronnie’s and also bottom bait rigs where it ‘flips and pricks’ instantly.

Available in barbed sizes 4, 5, 6, 7, 8.