"Jim Edmondson" wrote in message
For those experienced tyers out there, is having the ability to rotate the
hook as useful as it appears to a novice?

Yes, it is very helpful for some techniques. I would suggest, however, that
as a novice, you learn how to wrap materials the "hard way" before using the
rotary feature for stuff.

What are the downsides? One thing I thought of is with the bobbin on the
stand and the hook rotating to add body materials, the thread will twist,
is this an issue?

The only real downside is extra cost. You can lock it to keep it from
rotating, so it's otherwise the same as a fixed vise. No, thread twist is
not an issue (well, never has been for me.) The relatively few turns needed
to tie on most materials is inconsequential to the thread twist.

Are there other rotating vise systems out there in addition to the one
from Nor-Vise tha I should consider?

I'll echo the endorsements for the Renzetti Traveler.