I'm about to adhere inserts to a freshly fletched set of carbon arrows. I've been using epoxy, but if I hit something hard, the insert pops out. I have hot melt that I tried in the past, but it didn't "stick" very well, and based on what others say about its performance, I figure I'm not doing something right.
Any advice for the "correct" procedure for using the glue. It is the "archery glue" (brownish) that I purchased from 3RA. I do prep and clean shafts and inserts ahead of time. I've tried it with a lighter and the stove but neither have provided satisfactory results.
Thanks
just curious what brand arrow? and not all hotmelt glues are created equal, try another, and use alot, then wipe off excess
Check out BJ's tutorial..
http://www.shop.bigjimsbowcompany.com/Quick-Stick-Hot-Melt-Glue-AA102.htm?productId=45
Greenbear, I use Big Jim's hot melt problem solved! I have not used epoxy so not much help there for you.
Yep, just what Pat said that glue is great stuff.
Second Big Jim, that's all I use.
Thanks, guys. Arrows are Gold Tip "Traditional" Hunters. I didn't get the glue from Big Jim's, but it *looks* like the same stuff.
I just came across that video a few moments ago. I have a Berzomatic Torch that I bought years ago for some plumbing "stuff". I'm going to give it a go now...
Thanks, all.
If your hot melt is the 1 1/2" round cake it is the good stuff.
Eric
1 1/2" it is...
Just finished with a dozen. I *hope* using the torch is the X Factor. As I pushed the arrow down over the insert/glue, it seems as quite a bit of glue squeezed out. I put the arrows in water to cool the glue, and then simply peeled the glue that came out.
Two more questions if you folks would continue to be so kind:
1) is this glue squeeze out "normal"?
2) can I use this peel for future inserts, or should I only use "fresh" glue each time?
Now time will tell if I did it correctly, and if the 3RA glue is as good as you say Big Jims glue.
Thanks very much for your help!
I have been seeing the new cool melt on the shelves. Anyone try it?
I have not had any trouble with hot melt from the local hardware, but looking forward to trying some of Big Jim's soon.
One thing to take a look at is the amount of insert/shaft contact. I have two different types of GT inserts. The earlier ones have VERY large,deep grooves over at least half of the length. I found if I don't completely fill those grooves with glue, I don't get much adhesion and have pulled inserts loose pulling an arrow out of foam targets. If I make sure all the grooves are completely full, I have no trouble. A little more squeeze-out, but glue is cheap.
The other type GT inserts are nearly full diameter and don't need as much glue to bond them to the shaft. I still twist them as they go in to make sure I get complete coverage.
You can still use epoxy but you have to use the slow curing stuff. The stuff 2 hrs. and under turns brittle and does come loose when ya hit hard stuff. If you use the 24hr. stuff your problem should be solved! Shawn
I have used the blue cool melt but only for temp setup on carbons to see what shaft length I wanted on a target bow. I have not had them pull out though maybe only 50 shots. It's softer/flexible than ferr l tites hot melt more like hot glue gun glue. Just used some glue gun sticks for woodyweights and deltas with no problems too.
I have tried a few different kinds including 3 rivers and nothing seems to work as good as Big Jims
Haven't had a problem with Big Jims.
I had same problem. got some from Big Jim and have not had one come loose yet.
Just wanted to give a "thanks shout out" for the advice re: hot melt. I used the torch for the chore, and it seems to be the right tool for the job. I was shooting earlier today and hit the metal frame of the old patio chair I use for my target stand (it has pretty good deer dimensions with a grass-bag target laid horizontal). Normally, a leg or frame shot would definitely cause an epoxied insert to pop out (yes-even the 24 hour cure), and so far, the glue has held. Fortunately, I didn't hit it with every arrow, but so far so good.
I may get a cylinder from Big Jims just since it is so highly regarded by so many here. Thanks for the advice!!