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Main Boards => PowWow => Topic started by: Wolf1007 on April 30, 2016, 08:55:00 PM

Title: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: Wolf1007 on April 30, 2016, 08:55:00 PM
Guys,

I have run into some serious issues with some arrows I built over the last week. I am using One Stringer wraps with double dogs, True Flight feathers and Fletch Tite Platinum. I have had almost all of my feather peel off the shaft after about four or five days. Most have not even been shot. I cleaned the wraps with alcohol before fletching the arrows. They hold for a couple of days then peel off from the center out. I am using the 3Rivers glue applicator bottle with the stand.

Anyone got any ideas...this is getting uncessarily expensive as it ruins both the wraps and the feather    :mad: !

Thanks!

Jim
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: bogeyrider63 on April 30, 2016, 09:28:00 PM
I also use one stringer wraps with fletch tite and never have any issues. What kind of fletcher are you using? Being they are coming lose in the middle of the fletching makes me wonder if it has something to do with the fletcher you are using. I use a bitz. And never have any issues. Also wonder if wiping down the wraps could be an issue?
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: Wolf1007 on April 30, 2016, 09:46:00 PM
I use a bitz as well. I noticed that if I seat the feather in the clamp all the way down I get a little gap between the shaft and the feather base. I started pulling the feather base out of the clamp a bit to make up the difference...frustrating the heck out of me!
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: JRY309 on April 30, 2016, 09:49:00 PM
I also use Onestringer wraps with Platinum and haven't had any problems ever.How old was your Platinium? I thought I read there were some issues with Platinum that were older then 2011 or so.There is a date stamped on them where they are folded together on the end.
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: Wolf1007 on April 30, 2016, 09:56:00 PM
You got me thinking...I got three tubes from 3Rivers in one order and squeezed them all out into the glue bottle I use. I didnt think to check the date on them.
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: M60gunner on April 30, 2016, 09:58:00 PM
When I use my Blitzenberger and feathers I use the back of my razor knife to flatten down the quill against the shaft. Not sure what is causing the glue not to stay stuck.
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: Caughtandhobble on April 30, 2016, 11:07:00 PM
This is from their site;

Q:  What brand of fletching adhesive should I use to put my feathers on Onestringer wraps?

A:  We use and recommend Locktite Super Glue Ultra Gel.  it is inexpensive.  You can pick it up at any local hardware store.  It dries clear and fast and holds tight. We recommend you not use Duco or Fletch Tite Platinum.
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: bowcrazybrad on May 01, 2016, 04:36:00 AM
I have been using regular old cheap dollar store super glue for years. I like the jel. Two tubes for a buck. No need to clean the wraps. Works as good as any of the big names. If using alcohol to clean shafts make sure to use denatured. Rubbing alcohol has oil in it.
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: Ron Haines on May 01, 2016, 06:40:00 AM
I was using Fletch Platinum for a few years, and then just starting having problems with it.  I have since switched to Saunders NPV and it has been working great for me.  Holds tight and cleans off real clean.
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: reddogge on May 01, 2016, 08:29:00 AM
Switch to Saunders NPV and your troubles will go away.
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: Wolf1007 on May 01, 2016, 08:51:00 AM
Well...I guess that was an expensive lesson! To Saunders we go...
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: Wolf1007 on May 01, 2016, 08:51:00 AM
I've used Fletch-Tite for everything. I guess I just thought it was the do-it-all glue!
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: Red Beastmaster on May 01, 2016, 08:58:00 AM
I never worried about getting lost in the woods after Platinum came out.

I could always follow the trail of feathers back to the truck.

I now use tape or Loctite gel on alum shafts with/wo wraps.
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: Wolf1007 on May 01, 2016, 09:15:00 AM
Ha! That's kinda how I feel now.
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: rraming on May 01, 2016, 09:38:00 AM
Did one stringer change his wraps?
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: dino on May 01, 2016, 10:24:00 AM
See if there is an overlam on the vinyl wrap.  The glue would adhere to the overlam and the overlam would let go from the vinyl wrap.  If that is the issue Saunders is a solvent based glue the same as platinum and would cause the same issue. I've used one stringer wraps before but just solid colors and never had an issue. Also had a couple feathers separate from printed wraps (not one stringers) like the glue adhered to the printing and separated the printing from the vinyl when it pulled off. dino
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: Wolf1007 on May 01, 2016, 11:15:00 AM
Good to know before I place another large order! Yes there is an overlam. They are the clear Double  Dog wraps they put on over the actual wrap.

Does anyone use the Saunders stuff with the Double Dogs?

Thanks again!
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: the rifleman on May 01, 2016, 03:45:00 PM
I keep seeing references that the loctite is inexpensive but it sells for 26 bucks an ounce.  Store has .14 ounce bottles for 6 bucks even more pricey.  Am I looking at the wrong stuff?
I keep fletchtite plat for one year then toss and use a new tube.  It does seem to have a shelf life.  X2 on setting feathers out on jig then pushing into shaft to ensure no gaps.
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: yeager on May 01, 2016, 05:27:00 PM
Been using Onestringer wraps with Double Dog for years and have never had an issue of feathers coming off using Fast Set-Gel.
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: cacciatore on May 01, 2016, 05:55:00 PM
I use Onestinger wraps and Platinum glue and I have serious problem to replace a fear her since they are bonded so tjght that it is almost impossible take them out without havin to replace the whole thing.
I use Acetone to clean the quill.
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: Wolf1007 on May 01, 2016, 05:55:00 PM
Yeager

Who makes the Fast Set Gel?

Jim
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: McDave on May 01, 2016, 06:17:00 PM
Quote
Originally posted by reddogge:
Switch to Saunders NPV and your troubles will go away.
+1
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: Wolf1007 on May 01, 2016, 06:29:00 PM
Can anyone confirm using the Saunders with the double dog over wraps? Thanks!
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: bucknut on May 01, 2016, 09:26:00 PM
Platinum had a bad batch a few years ago. I had several issues with any shaft material I tried. There was a post on *********** about lot numbers on the tube. They had contacted fletch tite and they told them what lot numbers were bad. That was an expensive couple of tubes. It caused me to switch to loctite gel and NPV.
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: azhunter on May 02, 2016, 08:56:00 AM
What Cacciatore said. What has changed? Never had a problem. Fletch tite platinum with one stringer wraps. I have had the same batch of wraps when i bought a bunch of them several years ago.
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: DarkTimber on May 02, 2016, 11:16:00 AM
Quote
Originally posted by Wolf1007:
Can anyone confirm using the Saunders with the double dog over wraps? Thanks!
Confirmed.  It's all I use now.   I was a Fletchtite Platinum user from the time it came out.  I always had great luck with it until one year while on an elk hunt in Colorado literally every one of my fletching on every arrow fell off. Luckily I had a tube of super glue in my repair kit and was able to limp them through the hunt but I vowed never again.   After switching to Saunders NPV I'll never go back.
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: dennis502 on May 02, 2016, 11:31:00 AM
Confirmed x2. I used Platinum for years on my Onestringer wraps (with the clear Double Dog overwrap) and had a problem with a batch of arrows 2 years ago. I switched to Saunders NPV and have been very happy. No problems.

I also like the way NPV goes on the quill- for me it's a smoother, more consistent flow that with the Platinum....
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: Yellow Dog on May 02, 2016, 01:38:00 PM
Never been a fan of the Platinum. IMHO when they replaced the original formula Fletch-Tite with it years ago it was a step backwards. Went to tape with Onestringer wraps and never turned back.
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: Wolf1007 on May 03, 2016, 06:46:00 AM
Thanks guys I appreciate the feedback! I'll go with the Saunders from now on.
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: Pete McMiller on May 03, 2016, 08:28:00 AM
Never have/had any issues with Platinum myself.  I always clean with acetone and not alcohol so that may be the reason.
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: SlowBowinMO on May 03, 2016, 09:53:00 AM
Like others have posted, I used Platinum on Onestringer wraps for years without the slightest issue, then all of a sudden I had an issue.

NPV will work but in all honesty I went with Onestringers recommendation with the super glue gel and it is the way to go IMO.  If you keep your eyes open it can be had for as little as 3-4 bucks at the right place, and one bottle will easily do a couple dozen + arrows.
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: Alexander Traditional on May 03, 2016, 10:46:00 AM
I've never had problems with the fletch tite,but with all the good talk about NPV I did order some.
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: M60gunner on May 03, 2016, 12:20:00 PM
I cheat a little. I buy the OneStringer wraps plain and crest them with Bohning paints or lately water based paints. I wait over nite then use a foam brush and apply a coat of waterbased Polycrylic over the whole wrap. Besides a little protection for my cresting it seals the edges of the wrap. That and NPV glue until something better comes along.
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: nek4me on July 09, 2016, 09:06:00 PM
Like many on here I had adhesion problems with Fletchtite Platinum after having used original Fletchtite for years and moved on to other options. Today, I was looking at a tube of Platinum and noticed it included aluminum where at one point aluminum was struck from the label. It also had added this was an improved formulation for use on smooth surfaces.

I went to Bohning's website expecting to see a noticed about the improved formula that might erase the bad reputation the old had created but found none. Searching further I finally found an archery company's website in the UK, of all places, with an explanation of the changes, effective date, and lot numbers for the change to the new formulation.

 www.merlinarchery.co.uk/bohning-fletch-tite-platinum.htlm (http://www.merlinarchery.co.uk/bohning-fletch-tite-platinum.htlm)

This may explain the mixed reviews and success or lack of with this product on this thread. Also wonder why Bohning has not done more over here to announce the improved formula - 3 River's website stil says Platinum is not recommended for aluminum!

No wonder there is still so much confusion with this product.
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: nek4me on July 09, 2016, 09:14:00 PM
Had an error on the link.Hope this works:

 www.merlinarchery.co.uk/bohning-fletch-tite-platinum.htlm (http://www.merlinarchery.co.uk/bohning-fletch-tite-platinum.htlm)
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: nek4me on July 09, 2016, 09:40:00 PM
Sorry to make a mess of this but the Merlin Archery website comments for Platinum were they had started shipping the new formulation on May 22, 2014 and lot codes with 1st four digits below 3140 or with  a traditional date were for the old formulation. It was suggested that fletching be done in low humidity or an air conditioned environment so that may still be an issue for some.
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: M60gunner on July 09, 2016, 10:26:00 PM
The last tube I got at Christmas. It came form a large supply house so I am sure it was fresh. I used it to fletch vanes and feathers over wraps. So for so good but my glue of choice is NPV as I am moving away from Laq. for wood arrows. It is easier to keep only one brand on hand.
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: T Lail on July 10, 2016, 02:31:00 PM
had trouble on bare aluminum also.....went to lock tite superglue gel.......have not lost a feather since.....  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: gvdocholiday on July 10, 2016, 07:52:00 PM
When I use any vinyl wrap I always use fletch-tite platinum.  It bonds wonderfully with wraps.  

However, because I'm impatient, I've recently switched to using cyan-acrylic super glues and an accelerator application.  The glue literally sets on contact...I let a bit of the glue adsorb into the quill, then apply.  Instant set, no white residue leftover, and the feather will not come off.  I can fletch a dozen arrows with them ready to shoot under half an hour using a single bitz jig.
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: Stump73 on July 10, 2016, 08:05:00 PM
Like onestringer says on website. I used loc-tite superglue gel without any problems.
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: Orion on July 10, 2016, 10:04:00 PM
Don't know whose wraps I'm using, but have never had a problem with Fletchtite platinum.
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: the rifleman on July 11, 2016, 08:34:00 PM
Ditto what wolf said!!
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: the rifleman on July 11, 2016, 08:37:00 PM
On the leaving the arrow up out of the clamp.
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: wapiti on July 12, 2016, 03:00:00 AM
Bohning products are made to be used with other Bohning products. Kind of a crap shoot using them with other products. Over the years I use Fletchtite with Bohning dipped shafts but Saunders NPV sticks to about everything you can think of when it comes to NON Bohning products.
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: Tim Finley on July 12, 2016, 11:20:00 AM
I have used super glue and got the whole works stuck together feather, arrow and clamp . I havnt had any trouble with platinum but now Im worried as I am just fletching 2 dozen carbons with it. I like wood arrows with Duco the best.
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: on July 12, 2016, 02:50:00 PM
Quote
Originally posted by reddogge:
Switch to Saunders NPV and your troubles will go away.
This.
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: wingnut on July 12, 2016, 04:05:00 PM
Wraps are not in love with Fletch tite products.  Gel superglue is much better.

Mike
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: Dave Nash on July 12, 2016, 06:49:00 PM
I use the fletching tape and have never had a issue
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: stagetek on July 12, 2016, 07:17:00 PM
Seems like Fletch-tite has had on and off issues for awhile now. I was lucky to never have had problems, but because the local shop was out of it, I bought some Saunders NPV. I liked it a lot better and will be using it from now on.
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: stagetek on July 12, 2016, 07:19:00 PM
I should have added, that I use wraps all the time, and have had no problem with feathers staying on.
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: Mr. fingers on July 12, 2016, 08:08:00 PM
Are you using 99%alcohol or rubbing alcohol? Not the same. Rubbing alcohols has oils in it.
I've been using Fletch tite platinum and wraps from 3 Rivers forever with Truflight feathers. Never had one come off in fact I have a heck of a time getting them off to re-fletch I have to heat the wrap and peel it off the quill will not separate from the wrap.
If you have space between your feather and your,shaft you need to adjust your clamp. Put a dry feather in it and loosen your dial or dials and play with it till the feather sits as flush as you can get it. Tighten it up.
When you glue one on press down on the clamp and hold it down tight for 30 seconds. Then walk away let it set up fo 20 minutes or more then do the next one.
Title: Re: Fletch-Tite Platinum Problems
Post by: Kevin Dill on July 13, 2016, 06:03:00 AM
I always went with the logic of using one company's products in order to assure compatibility. I got started on Bohning over 30 years ago and it never failed me. Clear dip, crown dip (paint), cresting paint and Fletch-Tite. My arrows were good for as long as I needed them to be. That's one reason I was loathe to try anything but Bohning finishes and glues. It's one thing if fletching problems happen while hunting near home, but can be a big problem on a distant hunt.

I guess when a guy decides to go with other stains, finishes, wraps, paints and glues from a variety of sources he probably needs to do plenty of testing and maybe expect some things to be imperfect. Find your way and remember how you got there.

I use F-T Platinum on all my hunting arrows without problems. Regardless of the shaft I always do a real paint crown dip before cresting. My experience is that glue adheres much better to paint than to naked carbon or aluminum. I have never used vinyl wraps and likely never will.