Thunderbird question

[T Folts]

I heard that Thunderbird finish is going away, anyone know if there is any thruth to this???

[Brandon Stahl]

[T Folts]

SO if they are out and Diane at Thunderbird cant or wont contiune MFG of the epoxy what are our choices for the same type of finish??

[milehi101]

It is still listed in the latest traditional bowhunte.  I have never used the product but have been using Fuller Plast for many years and really like.  Only problem is only sold by the gallon so if you don't make a lot of bows it would be expensive.

[Brandon Stahl]

I'm not aware of any other 2 part epoxy based finishes that are similar to Thunderbird.  Someone may offer something similar, but I personally don't know of any.

Fullerplast would be a good option for an alternative.  It's not quite as tough as Thunderbird epoxy, but it's tough enough.

Some use ML Cambell's Krystal conversion varnish.  I used it for a while, but personally don't like it that well for bow finish.

If you like a gloss finish, 2 part automotive urethane is tough to beat.  I prefer using it to anything else, however most guys don't like a gloss finish on their hunting bow.    Only about 1 in 10 customers order a bow with gloss finish.

For a durable low luster alternative to Thunderbird, I've been looking into various marine finishes but I haven't actually tried any yet, so I can't give any recomendations on those.  They can be a little pricey and might not be an economical choice if you only build a few bows a year.

One thing about finish is that there's always pro's and con's with any of them.  What works good for one guy might not be the best choice for another.

[critter69]

I just now talked to Diane at Thunderbird. She said torginal is not manufacturing the product any longer but another company has taken over the manufacturing process and it is exactly the same product. She also asked me to inform you all that it is avalible and will be for a long time,as long as we continue to buy it, she will supply it. So dont think you have to find another finish, thunderbird will be around.I just completed my first build and sprayed it with thunder bird and thought it was great stuff. So dont worry its avalible.

[mater]

If you use an automotive finish, you can add flattening coumpound and get a satin to flat finish.

   not sure thats how you would spell flattening

[Brandon Stahl]

[T Folts]

Brandon
I use ML Campbell Krystal now and I want a tougher finish. I wanted to switch to Thunderbird but with what I heard was kinda bummed, so I will be ordering it when I run out
of the Krystal.
Thanks for the info.
Terry

[Brandon Stahl]

[Rich Wormington]

I ordered finish from Diane today, I have used Thunderbird for several years and have been well satisfied with it. It is the only finish I use.
Used to use Fuller Plast but Thunderbird is a much better finish.
  There was a rumor that it would no longer be available, that is false.
  She wanted everyone to know that it is aviable
and will continue to be made.
Rich

[Crooked Stic]

Much of a price change with the new manft. Co ?