Hot Melt Help

[greenbear]

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

[r-man]

just curious what brand arrow?  and not all hotmelt glues are created equal, try another, and use alot, then wipe off excess

[Pat B.]

Check out BJ's tutorial..

 http://www.shop.bigjimsbowcompany.com/Quick-Stick-Hot-Melt-Glue-AA102.htm?productId=45

[BuckeyeGuy]

Greenbear, I use Big Jim's hot melt problem solved!  I have not used epoxy so not much help there for you.

[BuckeyeGuy]

Yep, just what Pat said that glue is great stuff.

[ranger 3]

Second Big Jim, that's all I use.

[greenbear]

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.

[WESTBROOK]

If your hot melt is the 1 1/2" round cake it is the good stuff.

Eric

[greenbear]

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!

[Bear Heart]

I have been seeing the new cool melt on the shelves. Anyone try it?

[Bladepeek]

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.

[Shawn Leonard]

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

[Sharpeye]

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.

[Jim Brennen]

I have tried a few different kinds including 3 rivers and nothing seems to work as good as Big Jims

[Stump73]

Haven't had a problem with Big Jims.

[Cecil]

I had same problem. got some from Big Jim and have not had one come loose yet.

[greenbear]

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!!