Only proof positive I have is my hook up ratio is much better with sickle hooks plus the hook up for the most part is in the roof of their mouth. Loose very few once hooked. Went to black chrome. They seem not to rust like the others and just a gut thing but feel they are tougher and sharper. Just got 2,000 of the new Eagle Claw LiL Nasty sickle hooks. Tried a bend test and they seem to bend out and back pretty good compared to the Matzuo or the Mustad Aberdean.
Proud Member of Team Geezer
Charlie Weaver USN/ENC 1965-1979