by aka anglinarcher » Wed Jan 30, 2013 1:48 pm
Trimmer308 wrote:
> ... I have been testing some new clear coats, I have been using two part epoxy but I really don't like the heavy look or the need for keeping the bait moving while it dries, however so far I haven't found something I like better but the hunt continues..
> The Trimmer
You are finding out that the hunt for a clear coat is as old as lure making and as new as technology. Many are using Devcon 2 Ton, or other two part epoxy, but like you mention, it requires a lure turner and a lot of time.
Some have started to use the Alumilite Amazing Clear Cast as a paint on top coat. It actually works really well, and it cures faster then many options, but it still requires a lure turner.
I have been using the Envirotec Lite coating for some time now and it gives a stronger, less brittle, deep gloss finish, but talk about the need for a lure turner. OUCH! And let's not even get into the discussion about fish eyes (any oil on the lure causes the finish to thin and dimple), sags, etc.
There are some that use an Automotive Clear Coat, but it requires extreme care, an air mask, etc. It is dangerous without the proper care. Note that this is a very fast cure at least.
Larry Dahlberg kind of opened the door when he mentioned on one post that he was testing a UV cure. On TV's "How it's Made", I saw an episode where they used a UV cure for making Surf Boards. Apparently some are using Polyester Gloss Resin by Solarez. It cures with UV and it cures in seconds to minutes. I have some coming, so I will tell you if/how it works. Apparently, according to users, if you get the right UV source, the right material, .......... you can cure a bait in 3 minutes.
I will almost bet that Mike and Larry are cooking up something in the UV line. When they do, I expect that it will be just what we were asking for. But for now, good luck with your search.
I think my bucket list has a hole in the bottom!