Acraglas vs. Acraglas Gel

B

bndshardr

Joined
Oct 16, 2013
Messages
33
I just realized that my store of epoxy has expired and it needs to be replaced. I've seen recommendations for Acraglas as being an excellent adhesive and am intending to give it a try. Unfortunately, most of it at Brownell's is on back order. The Acraglas Gel, however is more readily available. Has anyone tried the gel, and if so, how does it fare compared to the traditional Acraglas?

Thanks

-Kurt
 
it seems to be just as strong and holds as well but it is very hard to get it to flow into hidden tang holes. it also leaves a more noticeable line on scales.
 
Thanks for the link, I didn't know that USA Knifemaker carried the Acraglas, good to know. That same kits is also in stock at Brownell's, but it comes with a bunch of stuff I don't need for the knives. I suppose I could use some of it for its intended purpose and bed one of my rifles. I was hoping to get the kit that only contained a 28 oz. bottle of resin and a 7 oz. bottle of hardener. I called Brownell's to see if they had an ETA for more, no joy. May have to break down and order the rifle kit, could be worse.
 
The gel is best for bedding rifles more easily, and doesn't lend itself well to anything "knifey".

The best thing about acra-glass is it's unbelievable versatility. It's very temperature sensitive, which means it can cure in a short time at 110*F, or it can have a long open time if it's cool.

It basically doesn't have a shelf life. 10, 12 years if stored properly. Very unique.

Don't try to skimp and use "whatever" solvent. Use acra-glass solvent, and you can thin acra-glass to water consistency without affecting it's other properties. Great for a penetrating sealer/finish.

It's tintable with any acrylic tint, which is what paint retailers use to tint all kinds of paint, so you can make it any color.

You can mix in anything from sawdust to "atomized" aluminum or stainless steel to affect it's color and other properties.

I've been using the stuff for 35 years, and it's a staple of my inventory.

That said, there are other newer types of adhesives that are shockingly good.

Loctite 330 Depend says In The Directions, "No need to degrease. Wipe excess grease and dirt off before..." That stuff is expensive, but amazing. Actually, I use Loctite 324 and 330 almost exclusively now. It's better and way faster for most bonding applications.

There are times when nothing but epoxy will work though.
 
Last edited:
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top