Felipe Miranda, from Canada, recently contacted me to tell me of the launch of his new company, appropriately named Miranda's Machine Works, and asked if he could send me several of his custom-made fly boxes for me to review. I really appreciate people who take chances in life such as starting their own ventures, so I was more than happy to agree to his request.
When Felipe first told me that the boxes were made from 6061 T6 aluminum bar stock, I was immediately concerned about the weight and size of the box. As I inspected the samples I'd received I was pleasantly surprised by the quality and well-thought-out design, and the boxes felt very light in my hands. What really jumped out at me was the beautiful stonefly design engraved on the front of the box; it might have been a little smaller, but it was nicely done and added a custom touch to the box. From speaking with Felipe I learned that he has many designs available.
My next thought was how the rare earth magnets holding the box closed felt very strong, and I felt comfortable that the box would not unexpectedly fly open. One nice touch would be to make the box waterproof to add even more security, and Felipe did say that feature is in the works.
As of review time, these boxes are available in three sizes and two finishes; matte silver and anodized olive green. All of the boxes are 4 x 5 inches, but the different sizes are reflected in their thicknesses; Small - 3/4", Medium - 1", Large - 1 1/4".
Overall the boxes looked great, felt great in my hand, seem very well built and should stand up to a lifetime of abuse. The custom engraving option makes these boxes even more special because it gives the owner the option to own a truly unique, functional conversation piece - and I'm convinced that when you casually show this to your fellow fishing friends it will draw intense interest, excited conversation and maybe even a little jealousy.
After speaking with Felipe it sounds like he can build a box to to suit your wishes, which in this day of mass production is a pleasant surprise and worth the extra cash. Being a new venture I am sure Felipe will be developing and introducing new and exciting items, and I wish him the very best of luck. I certainly believe that his fly boxes will be well received and appreciated by anyone who decides to make a purchase.
As of the time of this writing, Felipe is only taking orders via email and his address is: Mirandamachineworks@shaw.ca .
Felipe's price list is as follows. All prices are in Canadian Dollars.
Large: $45 Medium: $40 Small: $35
Hatches Magazine Subscription
Price: $6.95 for each issue
The Premiere issue is ready for shipping & the Fall 2008 issue will be available September 1st.
