On three occasions now I have mixed up a small batch of acra-glas to repair a small forend crack. I put a dab of brown coloring in the mix to match the wood. What I get is like a hard putty; it just does not cure. What am I doing wrong? I use the 4:1 ratio of epoxy to hardener (roughly) and just a tiny bit of coloring. I've had the stuff a couple years now, but the box says it's good for 7-10. Thanks
I always used equal parts. Does it say to use 4:1?
eeb,
I have been using acra-glass for 20+ years for knife handles. I use the thick stuff on a one to one basis. I've never not had it set up. Sounds like your ratio is off. It lasts a long time.
Ron
+1 on wrong ratio...1/1 is the ticket.
Yep. It's the red box stuff and the large can of epoxy says 4:1. I'll try it again. Thanks much.
Ed
Ed,
If it still ain't workin' give Brownells a call.
Liquid Acra-glas is a 4:l ratio. However it is important that you be EXACT. The liquid stuff is picky. Acra-glas Gel is a 1:1 ratio. This product is not as particular on exactness. I have been using both products since 1981 with good results. When I didn't use the correct measure, the epoxy didn't always set up hard. I hate re-doing my own work....but I have and do when it is not right.
Too much die will slow or impede the setting of all resins like acra-glass. It dries darker than what it look like when you mix it. Try a hair drier to heat the mixture up slightly. It will get harder with extra heat. Red box is 4:1, green box is 1:1. For cracks I use the red (gel) with heat to get it thin and to get it to flow into the cracks better. Have not need to redo any yet.
Acra-Glas has a shelf life; if it doesn't harden it's past due. A strong amonia(sp) odor indicates it's outdated. My experiences.