Garren WoodFishing Hook Reference
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The Mustad 3138 represents the pinnacle of mid-20th century commercial fishing hook engineering, designed specifically for heavy saltwater applications. This size 9/0 specimen showcases the classic Kirby bend with superior point geometry and tinned finish that made Mustad the dominant force in global commercial fishing P.
Manufactured in Oslo during Mustad’s golden era of Norwegian production (c. 1950-1970), this hook features extra-heavy wire gauge and the distinctive offset kirbed point that gives superior holding power in soft tissue. The red Key Brand packaging with snowflake border is iconic of this period P.
Highly sought by collectors for its representation of traditional Norwegian hook-making excellence and its connection to the global commercial fishing industry. Original packaging in this condition significantly enhances collectible value.
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The superior point geometry features a near-straight inner taper from barb to tip, creating maximum penetration efficiency while maintaining structural strength in heavy wire gauges. The Kirby bend’s offset design causes the point to turn inward upon hookset, creating a ‘gouging’ action that secures the hook in soft tissue – particularly effective for the large, soft-mouthed species this hook was designed to target P.
The tinned finish provides corrosion resistance through a thin layer of tin coating that creates a barrier against saltwater. This was the premium corrosion treatment before modern stainless steel alternatives. The extra-heavy wire gauge distributes stress across a larger cross-sectional area, essential when fighting large fish with heavy tackle.
Grid-derived from photograph (1/10" grid)
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O. Mustad & Sön was founded in 1832 by Ole Mustad in Gjøvik, Norway, growing from a small nail and pin factory into the world’s largest fishhook manufacturer. The company revolutionized hook production through industrial manufacturing techniques while maintaining Norwegian craftsmanship standards. By the mid-20th century, Mustad produced over 60,000 different hook patterns and sizes, dominating global commercial and sport fishing markets.
The Oslo facility referenced on this packaging was part of Mustad’s expansion during their peak production years. The Key Brand logo symbolized their slogan that Mustad hooks were the ‘key to success’ for fishermen worldwide. Though still in operation today, the historic Norwegian manufacturing has largely moved to overseas facilities, making these Oslo-marked hooks significant artifacts of industrial fishing history.
The Mustad 3138 was part of Mustad’s commercial fishing hook series, specifically designed for heavy saltwater applications. Introduced in the early 20th century, the 3138 became a workhorse pattern for commercial fishermen targeting large species like cod, halibut, and sharks. The Kirby bend design traces back to Charles Kirby’s 1650s innovations in London, which Mustad perfected through industrial precision manufacturing.
This series was characterized by extra-heavy wire construction, superior point geometry, and reliable tinned finishes that resisted saltwater corrosion. The 3138 remained in production for decades with minimal changes, testament to its proven effectiveness. Modern production has largely moved away from this traditional pattern in favor of stainless steel alternatives, making vintage Norwegian-made examples increasingly collectible.
Red label with Key Brand logo and decorative snowflake border is characteristic of mid-20th century Mustad packaging. Oslo manufacturing location (city name changed from Christiania in 1925) before major production moved overseas in 1970s. No barcode indicates pre-1974 production.
During World War II, Mustad's Norwegian factories were requisitioned by German forces, but the company's hook-making expertise proved so valuable that production continued under occupation. Many Allied prisoners of war and resistance fighters used Mustad hooks for both fishing to supplement rations and as components in improvised tools and weapons.
The Kirby bend traces its lineage to Charles Kirby, a London needle-maker who in the 1650s developed the offset hook design and improved tempering processes. His innovations were closely guarded trade secrets that revolutionized hook effectiveness. Mustad acquired and refined these techniques through industrial precision, creating the first mass-produced Kirby hooks of consistent quality.
The 3138 pattern influenced numerous competing designs from manufacturers like Partridge and Allcock, but Mustad’s industrial capacity and global distribution network made their version the international standard. Modern offshore hooks still employ similar offset geometry, though stainless construction has largely replaced tinned finishes.
| Silhouette | Hook Model | Match | Analysis | Compare |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
3308 No. 20 — Cincinnati Bass Hooks | 95% | Compare | |
|
3138 ST No. 6/0 — Mustad-Best Kirby Hooks | 94% | Compare | |
|
4341 No. 2/0 — Mustad 4341 | 87% | Compare | |
|
2320 No. 6 — Mustad-Kirby Sea Hooks | 86% | Compare | |
|
3136 No. 4/0 — Best Kirby Hooks | 86% | Compare |
| Silhouette | Hook Model | Match | Compare |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
3138 ST No. 6/0 — Mustad-Best Kirby Hooks | 99% | Compare |
|
3164 A No. #2 (P) — 3164 A | 99% | Compare |
|
3221-J No. 6/0 — Pflueger Kirby | 99% | Compare |
|
3101 No. 2 — 3101 Limerick Hook | 98% | Compare |
|
3123 No. 3 — Mustad-Limerick Hook | 98% | Compare |
Designed for heavy saltwater bait fishing targeting large bottom species and pelagic fish. The size 9/0 designation indicates this hook was intended for substantial baits and powerful fish species including cod, halibut, large sharks, grouper, and other commercial species. The Kirby offset and superior point combination excels with soft baits like whole fish, squid, and large chunks where penetration and holding power are critical.
Commercial longlining, heavy surf fishing, big game bait rigs, charter boat fishing
Not typically used for fly tying
| Hook | Match Quality | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mustad 4200 Kirby | Very Good | Modern stainless version maintains Kirby offset but with updated metallurgy |
| Mustad 34007 O'Shaughnessy | Good | Similar strength and application but with straight point design |
| Gamakatsu Octopus Circle | Moderate | Modern alternative for large bait fishing with circle hook regulations |
Strong collector interest due to iconic Key Brand packaging, Norwegian manufacturing heritage, and representation of commercial fishing's golden era. Condition and completeness of original packaging significantly impact value.
Positive factors include the excellent preservation of the distinctive red Key Brand packaging, which is highly recognizable among Mustad collectors. The Oslo manufacturing location adds historical significance as these represent the peak of Norwegian hook-making before overseas production transitions. Size 9/0 is substantial enough to display well and demonstrates the industrial scale of commercial fishing operations.
Limiting factors include the relatively common nature of Kirby patterns in general, though this specific Key Brand packaging format is becoming scarce. The hook’s utilitarian design lacks the aesthetic appeal of some specialty patterns, and the large size limits display options. Competition from other Mustad collectibles and the industrial rather than artisanal nature of the product somewhat constrains premium pricing.
Red rectangular paper label with decorative snowflake border. Features Key Brand logo with skeleton key graphic. Text printed in black ink: 'O. MUSTAD & SÖN Manufacturers Oslo - Norway', 'Key Brand', 'Qual. 3138 Superior', 'Mustad-Best Kirby Hooks', '100 Ringed Tinned', 'Made in Norway'. Hand-stamped size '9/0' in black ink. Label shows excellent preservation with minimal wear.
Values reflect excellent packaging condition and Norwegian provenance. Loose hooks worth significantly less. Premium pricing for complete unopened packages or rare size variations.
Specialist tackle collectors, Norwegian fishing memorabilia dealers, vintage tackle shows, occasionally on eBay in fishing reel and tackle lots
Store in a cool, dry environment with stable temperature and humidity to prevent tin coating degradation. The tinned finish is susceptible to oxidation in high-humidity conditions, which can lead to a dull gray patina that collectors may find undesirable. Original packaging adds significant historical and monetary value – keep hooks on the original card rather than removing them.
Handle the red paper label carefully as the vintage paper stock can become brittle with age. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight which can fade the vibrant red color that makes this packaging so distinctive. Store flat in archival boxes with acid-free tissue paper separation to prevent label-to-label contact that could cause ink transfer or surface abrasion.
The size ‘9/0’ marking on this label appears to be hand-stamped using a rubber stamp with black ink, applied after the label printing process. This was standard practice for Mustad’s bulk packaging where multiple sizes shared the same base label design. The stamp shows consistent ink density and clear impression, indicating fresh stamping equipment and proper technique.
The placement slightly below center on the label follows Mustad’s typical stamping protocols from this era. The ink appears to be standard commercial marking ink rather than fountain pen or ballpoint, consistent with factory processing procedures. This hand-stamping adds authenticity and confirms the package’s original factory preparation rather than later repackaging.
Source: Original Mustad 3138 Key Brand package label, c. 1950-1970
The label’s text ‘Mustad-Best Kirby Hooks’ represents a bold marketing claim that positioned Mustad as the definitive manufacturer of Kirby-pattern hooks. This phrasing suggests confidence in their industrial production quality versus traditional hand-forged competitors from Redditch, England. The ‘Key Brand’ designation with accompanying skeleton key logo reinforced their corporate slogan that Mustad hooks were the ‘key to success.’
The specification ‘Ringed Tinned’ clearly communicates the two key technical features that differentiated this product: the separate ring eye construction and the tin corrosion-resistant coating. These were premium features that commanded higher prices than basic eye and bare steel alternatives, positioning this as a professional-grade product for serious commercial applications.
| P | Photographically verified — Directly observable in the photograph(s) on this page. |
| V | Verified by documentation — Confirmed by manufacturer catalog, spec sheet, or published reference. |
| I | Inferred — A logical deduction from observable or documented evidence, not directly stated. |
| E | Estimated — An approximation based on visual comparison, proportional analysis, or limited data. |
| S | Speculative — A reasoned hypothesis that cannot be confirmed from available evidence. |
Claims with no notation are confirmed by multiple independent sources. All photographs on garrenwood.com are taken on a measurement grid where each square equals 1/10 inch (0.1″ / 2.54 mm).
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