is 2 part epoxy still the best...

[mikec55]

Is 2-part epoxy still the best option for assembling metal or resin figures? What about Gorilla Glue or some other type of super glue?
I always disliked having to sit for 10 minutes or so, holding parts together hoping they'll bond on the 1st try. It usually worked well with larger parts but not so well with smaller parts.
For example, I've had trouble gluing the hand holding the skull to the arm of Pegaso's (?) neanderthal figure. I've tried epoxy and then super glue but no luck, so far. I even drilled out the arm and attached a small post to the wrist with no better result.
Any advice?

 

[Ned Ricks]

Yes, small parts can be a bother, especially with (my) shaky hands.

I have had some success with super glue and then applying super glues accelerator with a micro brush, such as the ones used for cosmetics. These are very cheap on eBay. I have also found to always, always wear latex or latex-type gloves to spare my skin of random glue.

After a few false starts, I manage to recall that having things at hand before the process helps...

N

 

[theBaron]

I use 2-part epoxy, a 5-minute curing formula. It's made by Bob Smith Industries, who make most of the CA glue and epoxies here in the US, I think. Since it works so well for me, there has been no reason for me to try other glues, like Gorilla Glue.
I use epoxy, with pinning, to assemble metal or resin figures, generally. It's stronger over time than CA glue. Depending on the job, though, I will use CA glue-for attaching bits of equipment, for example. I'll add that I work primarily with metal 54mm figures, and resin figures in 1/20 scale. 2-part epoxy for assembly, generally, in both cases.
For styrene figures, by the way, I use styrene glue. I want the weld bond that styrene glues produce.
Prost!
Brad

 

[polyphemus]

One tip I've picked up over time is to heat the. epoxy resin; mix the glue as usual 50/50 on tin/aluminium foil then place the foil on a moderate heat source such as a radiator. The glue will turn liquid making it more manageable. This won't affect the setting time and will only take around 30 seconds. This can also create a very strong filler.

Geoff

 

[Nap]

Hi there

Wherever possible I drill and put a post to fit pieces and 'tack' in place with superglue ( never tried Gorilla ) a 2 part epoxy used also for final security

My pieces are generally larger as I do busts

I have seen that some superglues go brittle after a longtime

Nap

 

[theBaron]

One tip I've picked up over time is to heat the. epoxy resin; mix the glue as usual 50/50 on tin/aluminium foil then place the foil on a moderate heat source such as a radiator. The glue will turn liquid making it more manageable. This won't affect the setting time and will only take around 30 seconds. This can also create a very strong filler.

Geoff

That's very interesting, Geoff! I'm going to try that the next time I have to assemble some figures, which will be soon. I'm curious to see how it works.

Prost!
Brad

 

[mikec55]

Ok, my thanks to all for the good advice. I'll have to try the heated approach to epoxy and maybe learn to be more patient during the drying time.
At the worst, a one-handed neanderthal might be an option.

Mike

 

[Alex]

I always use epoxy glue whenever possible and always try to pin every joint.
If possible I will use the 30 min formula and if not practical, it will be the 5 min formula.
While holding the parts together, I will sometimes add a drop of cyanoacrylate glue here and there in order to prevent any movement of the parts while the epoxy glue cures.
By the way, you can revive any old epoxy glue by flashing it in the microwave for a few seconds at a time.

 

[mikec55]

Alex-


Thanks for the advice.. Adding a few drops of super glue might be the answer for those small fiddly parts.

 

[Larsen E. Whipsnade]

I've been using Gorilla Super Glue Gel. I place a drop or two on a piece of paper (remember to shake the gel well) and with the point of a pin or toothpick take the amount I need and apply it to the joint. It has worked well for me, especially on smaller joints where there is limited gluing surface. JB Quick Weld epoxy is still my choice for larger gluing surfaces.
Rick

 

[mikec55]

lot of different gorilla glue products. I'll need to pick up the gel and give it a try.
Thank you for the advice.