Hidden Tang adhesive

CUTS LIKE A KRIS

CUTS LIKE A KRIS

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Sep 28, 2005
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Just wondering what you guys and gals use for an adhesive when making hidden tang knives, as I just sent one out for HT and I usually use Gorilla Glue but it is not made for filling gaps as the foam has no adhesive strength (4 piece handle). The most readily available epoxy that I have little experience with is G2 from Lee Valley, but my containers need to be thrown out (~8 years old now, just realized that). I will most likely get it local so any suggestions will be appreciated, I would love to try Acraglas but doubt I'd find it local.

Thanks in advance.
 
Kris,
I have always used an epoxy of one sort or another for hidden tangs. I agree that acraglass would be your best bet if you can get it. I use CA glues for full tangs, along with pins.
Del
 
We have used Acraglas from Brownells for years and have been very plesed with the results. If the materials being glued together are properly cleaned and a little rough the bond is very difficult to break. On a hidden tang, we have found it impossible to remove the handle with out destroying the handle material.
 
Karl- What type would you recommend, I have no experience with it and do not know much about West systems (did not even remember the name so Google probably wouldn't help much) and wanted advice that Google cannot provide. Thank you.
 
System Three T-88 is available from Woodcraft ( and others) and is a structural epoxy resin. It is made to be gap filling and has zero shrinkage. Not cheap, but super strong. It is what I use for all epoxy jobs, now.
Stacy
 
CUTS LIKE A KRIS said:
Karl- What type would you recommend, I have no experience with it and do not know much about West systems (did not even remember the name so Google probably wouldn't help much) and wanted advice that Google cannot provide. Thank you.
Click to expand...

I use the 105 Resin and the 205/206 hardeners.
You will need the pumps first time out, but they are a one time buy.
With a little elementary school math, I use my reloading scale and weigh out smaller amounts for small jobs.
The stuff is designed to last a LIFETIME in extreme environments and to withstand all types of temperatures, UV exposure, solvents and fuels found around the marine environment, stresses, etc.
I have a buddy who drill holes in the concrete and fills them with West System. After it has set-up, he drills and taps it to recieve bolts for mounting permanent wet-bars and other fixtures.
 
Devcon 2 Ton and JB Weld are what I've been using and I've been very happy with the outcome. I make hidden tang knives almost exclusively and I have not had anyone have a problem with the glue popping.

Modern epoxies are very strong, just make sure you get even parts when mixing it so it will set up correctly.

Also, if you live in a cold environment, store your epoxies inside - at least overnight - so they aren't cold. I went round and round with epoxies that wouldn't set completely. Then, I realized I was always glueing them up in a cold shop. Since then, I haven't had any issues.

Good luck.
Brook
 
Brook- I work in my basement so indoors is not an issue! And it does get chilly from time to time here, but nothing drastic! I have not trusted Devcon or JB after the "Glue Wars" but thank you for your input. Not too much experience with 2 part so I'll have to get the proper supplies.

Karl- Thank you for the precise data, I'll look into it shortly!
 
Kris

We have not found anything superior to Industrial Formulators G2 Epoxy - available at Lee Valley and at Black Forest Hardwoods among others.

Rob!
 
I've only used G1 in wood-to-wood applications. Will the G2 epoxy do everything that G1 epoxy will? Aside from being better for oily woods, does it bond wood to metal better?
 
I've used Gorilla Glue to fill gaps on a hidden tang knife-and the foam most certainly does have great adhesive strenght. I also used plumbers putty on one of my daily carries, and three years later-it's still rock solid. Plumbers Putty comes in a small tube, looks like play dough, with a white core and green outer covering. When mixed together, it hardens like concrete, and its waterprove. pretty good stuff, in my opinion.

Dave
 
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