
AFW Single Barrel Leader Sleeves for Secure Crimps
AFW Single Barrel Leader Sleeves are the go-to crimp for cable leader connections. Made from copper with a flat black finish, these sleeves work with Surflon, Surfstrand, and similar wire products. They come in 11 sizes from 0.63mm to 3.34mm, so you can match them to any cable diameter. Packs contain 25 to 36 sleeves depending on size.
- Copper construction with durable black finish
- 11 sizes from #0 (0.63mm) to #10 (3.34mm)
- Ideal for Surflon and Surfstrand wire
- 25-36 sleeves per pack
- Pair with the SNL 450H crimper for clean crimps
Why Sleeve Selection Matters for Leader Crimps
A bad crimp will cost you the fish of a lifetime. If the sleeve is too loose, the wire slips out under load. If it is too tight, you crush the wire and weaken the connection. AFW single barrel sleeves are sized precisely for cable wire, and the copper material deforms evenly when crimped, creating a secure hold without damaging the wire.
These sleeves are the standard for building cable leaders for shark rigs, bottom rigs, dredge arms, and any application where you need a reliable wire-to-hardware connection. The flat black finish resists corrosion and keeps your rigs looking clean in the water.
These sleeves are the standard for building cable leaders for shark rigs, bottom rigs, dredge arms, and any application where you need a reliable wire-to-hardware connection. The flat black finish resists corrosion and keeps your rigs looking clean in the water.
Copper Construction
Copper is the ideal material for crimping sleeves. It deforms evenly under pressure, creating a uniform crimp that holds wire securely. Unlike aluminum, copper maintains its grip over time without cracking.
Precise Size Range
Eleven sizes from 0.63mm to 3.34mm cover everything from light Surflon cable to heavy stainless leaders. Pick the sleeve with a diameter slightly more than double your wire diameter for the best fit.
Flat Black Finish
The non-reflective black coating resists saltwater corrosion and keeps your rigs low-profile in the water. No bright flash to spook wary fish near your terminal connections.
How to Crimp with AFW Single Barrel Sleeves
1. Thread the wire through the sleeve, then through the hook eye or swivel
2. Loop the wire back through the sleeve a second time
3. Slide the sleeve down to create a small loop at the hardware
4. Position the sleeve in the correct die of your crimping tool
5. Squeeze firmly to compress the sleeve - it should deform into an oval shape
6. Test the connection by pulling hard on the wire before fishing
Specs & Common Questions
Everything you need to know before you buy
Full Specifications +
| Brand | AFW (American Fishing Wire) |
| Material | Copper |
| Finish | Flat Black |
| Size Range | #0 (0.63mm) to #10 (3.34mm) |
| Pack Quantity | 25-36 per pack |
| Type | Single Barrel |
| Compatible Wire | Surflon, Surfstrand, cable wire |
What size sleeve do I need for my wire? +
Pick a sleeve with an inner diameter slightly more than double your wire diameter. For example, use a #3 (1.40mm) sleeve for 90 lb Surflon. Check our crimping guide for a full size chart.
What crimper works with these sleeves? +
The SNL 450H Hand Crimper handles sizes 1.3mm to 4.2mm and is our top recommendation. Any quality hand or bench crimper with the right dies will work.
Can I use these for mono leader crimps? +
These are designed for cable wire. For mono and fluorocarbon leaders, use double barrel sleeves instead. Read our leader FAQ for more info.
How many crimps should I use per connection? +
One sleeve with a double-pass of wire is standard. Some anglers use two sleeves on critical connections for extra security. Our crimping guide covers best practices.
Are these sleeves corrosion resistant? +
Yes. The copper construction and flat black finish both resist saltwater corrosion. Rinse your rigs with fresh water after fishing to maximize their lifespan. See our wire vs mono leader guide for more.
What applications are these sleeves best for? +
Cable leaders for sharks, bottom rigs, dredge arms, trolling rigs, and any wire-to-hardware connection. Learn more about rigging in our live bait rigging guide.