Any real differences in harness needle durability?

[Tallbald]

Sewing tonight, two Tandy (Chinese) needles broke at the eye while pulling through the drilled holes. Are there any differences in the quality of needles? Or is a needle a needle for the most part? Might be my technique, but I work hard to keep line of pull straight when using pliers. Thanks. Don

[Ten Wolves Fiveshooter]

I prefer the harness needle over the other when sewing gun leather, and use it the most, unless I'm using a thinner thread, I haven't broke a needle yet since switching to the harness needle, and with my big hands it is much more user friendly.

             tEN wOLVES 

[Graveyard Jack]

I was breaking needles until I realized my holes were too small. I was having to use pliers with every pull. I was using too small an awl tip. When I switched to a sharp diamond point, life became much easier. That, coupled with a stitching groove, makes for a much cleaner stitch line. You're not removing material so the holes close up nicely.

[ChuckBurrows]

Yes there is definite difference in quality - get the Osborne egg eye harness needles form vendors such as Campbell Randall http://www.campbell-randall.com/shop/index.php?route=product/search&filter_name=osborne%20harness%20needle
This is the same outfit I get Barbour Linen thread from so I just order a pack of needles at the same time

Size will depend on what size thread you size - 5 cord linen like a size O needle - if thicker than 5 cord use size OO or OOO

I used needles from Tandy for many years but when they changed to the latest ones I broke eyes repeatedly. As Craig noted also use the right size awl. The only time I break needles now is after a LOT of use and those times I pull side ways rather than straight....

The other brand needles that are excellent are the John James brand from England - if you can find them use them. Tandy used to sell them but no more.....

[Cliff Fendley]

ditto to what Chuck said. I use Osborne needles and cant remember ever breaking one. Been using the same ones for a few years now.

[Antipaladin]

I literally just broke 2 Tandy harness needles a few minutes ago sewing up a shotgun belt.
Osborne all the way.

[bedbugbilly]

I had two good quality needles that I used for years with no problems (in conjunction with hand awl).  Can't remember even where I got 'em from . . . but one finally broke.  Last winter, I picked up a quantity of em from Tandy as I always like to be "prepared".  I'm glad I did as I probably had ten or so of 'em break at the eye.  I was not a happy camper.  It sounds like it's time to hunt some Osborne needles up and buy a few for the bench.  I actually thought it was "just me" witht he Tandy needles . . . kind of glad to hear I'm not the only one who ha the problem.   

[Marshal Will Wingam]

I have to agree that the Osborne needles are better. I broke them left and right until I finally ordered the O's. Now I don't break them very often.

[Dalton Masterson]

I have been using the ones that Springfield Leather sells that are from England. I have not broken a needle in 2 years now, and rarely have to use pliers. And no drilled holes either, only an awl hole. Once in awhile I will accidentally make a new hole with these if I push too hard and miss the awl hole.

I dont think they are any different that Osborne to be honest though.
DM