If I were looking for an inexpensive, non-flexible structural-type epoxy for messing around with an idea for reel seat inserts, trim rings, winding checks, etc., what would your recommendation be?

[www.amazon.com]

Pretty reasonable - $15 / lb.

12 hour cure epoxy:
[www.lowes.com]


Roger



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 12/30/2012 08:42PM by roger wilson.

Don't know what you are attempting but have you considered a casting resin like some of the alumilite products? These come in clear, white and a tan color and are machinable. These can be cast using silicone molds or a hard mold made from plastic like a cutting board. They can be colored or tinted with dyes and metallic powders. this stuff has been used to cast turning blanks for reel seats and ink pens by many folks.

2X what James posted - you want a casting resin (and hardener)., You should be able to find different brands at hobby shops or craft stores - probably cost you around $20 / pint kit.

James and Ken,
Do you happen to know if materials (plant fibers, for example) can be cast in the resin as well? I have to assume at some point you get into structural integrity issues.

Almost anything can be cast. For organics you need to either "pickle" or ensure you eliminate ALL air to keep it from rotting. Hard bodied insects (those with exoskeletons) hold up better. I've cast scorpions and they look as good as when they were dropped in 10 years ago. Feathers and most plants work if they're dry (no green grass /pond weeds). For small castings - like reel seats and foregrips you shouldn't have any trouble with integrity - but an inner sleeve will help keep the resin circular on the inside of the casting.

Check out this web site. [www.turntex.com]. He makes all sorts of turning blanks with alumilite. There are several videos showing how he does it. Since I turn pens and build rods this is going to be my next adventure. Planning on casting some blanks for pens and reel seats. His worthless wood blanks are fantastic.

You can thicken epoxy with various fillers. Might not end up as inexpensive as you like, but it's easily done.