Garren WoodFishing Hook Reference
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Mustad 23407 D is a size 1/0 O’Shaughnessy bend saltwater bait hook in Duratin finish, characterized by a straight ring eye, forged construction throughout the bend, and superior point geometry optimized for penetration through natural bait. The O’Shaughnessy bend itself—distinguished by its squared-off bottom curve and redistributed wire mass at stress points—became the global standard for general-purpose saltwater bait fishing across multiple manufacturers and remained in continuous production from the nineteenth century through the modern era. This specimen dates to the 1960s-1970s based on its white box packaging with asterisk border and combined M/Key Brand logo, representing Mustad’s transition period before adoption of blister pack formats. The hook’s historical significance lies not in innovation but in its embodiment of a proven design: the O’Shaughnessy bend solved the problem of providing maximum holding power under the variable loads imposed by large saltwater species, and this particular variant demonstrates the manufacturer’s refinement of the pattern through wire gauge selection and proprietary hot-dipped tinning.
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Straight Ball | O’Shaughnessy | Standard Wire | Superior Point | Tinned
The superior point geometry provides optimal penetration characteristics for bait fishing applications, where the hook must drive through natural bait material before reaching the fish’s mouth I. Forged construction throughout the bend redistributes wire material to create maximum strength at stress concentration points while maintaining the proper wire diameter for the target fish species I. The straight ring eye orientation aligns with the hook shank to minimize leverage forces that could straighten the eye under load I.
Grid-derived from photograph (1/10" grid)
Physical measurement with calipers
We have measurements for sizes 1/0, 12. Know any others? Submit calipered measurements and we'll review and add them. Thank you!
Sources: this specimen and its packaging.
The 3407 series represents Mustad’s interpretation of the classic O’Shaughnessy pattern, first cataloged in the early 20th century as demand grew for reliable saltwater hooks. The 23407 D variant appeared in the post-WWII era as part of Mustad’s expanded Key Brand retail packaging initiative, targeting the growing American recreational fishing market.
The series included multiple finish options (bronzed, tinned, stainless) and packaging formats (bulk commercial, retail cards, boxes) to serve different market segments. The O’Shaughnessy pattern’s reputation for strength and reliability made it a cornerstone of Mustad’s saltwater hook offerings, remaining in production through multiple packaging redesigns and continuing today as the 3407 series.
White cardboard box with asterisk border design and combined M/Key Brand logo represents classic mid-century Mustad packaging style used before the transition to plastic blister packs and yellow/black branding in the 1980s. No barcode present indicates pre-1974 production. Typography and print quality consistent with 1960s-1970s offset printing.
The O'Shaughnessy pattern earned its reputation during the golden age of Atlantic cod fishing, when commercial fishermen discovered that the forged bend geometry could withstand the massive strain of hauling hundred-pound cod over ship rails without straightening. This practical strength advantage made it the preferred choice for both commercial and recreational saltwater fishing throughout the 20th century.
The O’Shaughnessy pattern traces to Irish hook maker innovations of the mid-19th century, representing a departure from traditional English round bend patterns toward geometry optimized for larger fish and stronger materials. Mustad’s interpretation became the industry standard, influencing competing manufacturers like Partridge, Allcock, and Wright & McGill to develop their own O’Shaughnessy variants.
The 23407 D specifically reflects Mustad’s post-war focus on corrosion-resistant finishes for the expanding saltwater fishing market, competing directly with Partridge’s sea hooks and American manufacturers’ tinned offerings.
| Silhouette | Hook Model | Match | Analysis | Compare |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
23407 B No. 1, 2 — Mustad-O’Shaughnessy Hooks | 87% | Compare | |
|
31010 ST No. 3/0 — Mustad-Atlantic Limerick Hook | 86% | Compare | |
|
3421-BT No. 20 — Cincinnati Bass | 86% | Compare | |
|
3406 B No. 1, No. 4 — Mustad 3406 B | 82% | Compare | |
|
34081 No. (unspecified) — Mustad 34081 — O'Shaughnessy | 81% | Compare |
| Silhouette | Hook Model | Match | Compare |
|---|---|---|---|
|
4064 No. 2/0 — Spear O'Shaughnessy | 88% | Compare |
|
3407DT No. 5/0 — Mustad 3407DT | 88% | Compare |
|
3411 A No. 2/0 — Mustad 3411A — Blind Eye O'Shaughnessy | 86% | Compare |
|
3121-J No. 9/0 — Limerick | 85% | Compare |
|
5515 No. 8/0 — Pflueger #5515 O'Shaughnessy Dublin Needle Eyed | 82% | Compare |
Designed primarily for saltwater bait fishing, the 23407 D excels with natural baits including seaworms, clams, squid strips, and cut fish for species like striped bass, bluefish, cod, and snapper I. The straight ring eye accommodates heavy monofilament or wire leaders, while the forged O’Shaughnessy bend provides the strength needed for large saltwater fish I. Also served as a standard foundation for tying classic saltwater streamers before stainless steel hooks became preferred for fly fishing applications I.
Vintage saltwater fly patterns, large freshwater bait fishing, specimen carp angling
Early Lefty's Deceiver, Classic Saltwater Streamers, Bucktail patterns
| Hook | Match Quality | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mustad 3407-DT | Excellent | Direct descendant with Duratin finish, identical geometry |
| Mustad 34007 | Very Good | Stainless steel version, same O'Shaughnessy pattern |
| Gamakatsu Octopus | Good | Similar application, different bend geometry |
Modest collectible interest due to vintage Key Brand packaging and historical significance of the O'Shaughnessy pattern, but limited by the hook's common availability.
Positive factors include the classic Key Brand packaging design that represents Mustad’s mid-century retail marketing, the historical importance of the O’Shaughnessy pattern in saltwater fishing development, and the quality construction that exemplifies Norwegian industrial manufacturing standards. The Duratin finish represents an important technological advancement in hook corrosion resistance.
Limiting factors include the pattern’s continued production in modern forms, relatively large original production quantities, and the hook’s primary appeal to users rather than collectors. Most examples available lack original packaging, reducing display and documentation value for serious collectors.
White cardboard box with black asterisk border design. Features combined Mustad M logo and Key Brand key symbol. Typography includes 'Qual. 23407 D', 'O'Shaughnessy Hooks', 'Ringed Duratin', size '1/0', and '100 Pcs.' All text printed in black ink on white stock.
Values reflect original packaging premium over loose hooks. Complete boxes in excellent condition command higher prices from Mustad collectors and vintage tackle enthusiasts.
eBay vintage tackle sections, antique tackle shows, estate sales, older tackle shops clearing vintage inventory
Look for the distinctive white box with black asterisk border and combined M/Key Brand logos. Verify ‘Qual. 23407 D’ model code and ‘Duratin’ finish designation. Authentic boxes show quality offset printing with sharp graphics and proper Mustad trademark symbols.
Store in a cool, dry environment to preserve the Duratin tinned finish, which can develop patina with humidity exposure. The original cardboard packaging should be supported to prevent crushing – consider placing in archival storage boxes with acid-free tissue. Keep hooks in the original box arrangement to prevent point damage and maintain the complete retail presentation that drives collectible value.
Handle the vintage cardboard packaging minimally, as the white stock shows fingerprints and edge wear easily. The asterisk border design is printed rather than embossed, making it susceptible to scuffing. If displaying, avoid direct sunlight which can fade the black graphics over time.
| 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. |
Unnotated claims are the compiler’s synthesis; see 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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