Best Arrow Insert Glue – the secret to sending your arrows where they’re aimed lies not just in the shafts and string, but also in the often-overlooked glue holding your arrow inserts firmly in place. As with most things bowhunting related, there are far too many adhesive options on the market.
So grab your fletching jig and knock point pointer, because we’re about to get secretive about the best glues for sealing the deal between your arrow shafts and inserts.
So that’s why I “asked” Olympic gold medalist Brady Ellison and World Archery Champion Sarah Sonnichsen for help.
#1 G5 G-Lock Blu-Glu
G5 G-Lock Blu-Glu.
It is a blue, gel-like glue that is designed for use with carbon fiber arrows. It is very strong and provides a long-lasting bond. It has a reputation for being excellent for fletching arrows.
I have personally used many different vane glues, but none have come close to the performance of this one. It is a little thinner than most, which I believe is why it works so well. In a week of shooting, I have not lost one vane, and even when I tried to remove some vanes after damaging a few, I was unable to remove them without a razor. I was incredibly satisfied.
Fast forward to this year, and I still find this glue to be the best. It has held up well for my friend who shoots FMJ Easton Arrows, and he hasn’t lost even one vane. As for me, I shoot FMJ too, but I’m much tougher on my arrows. I shoot six arrows at the same time, which leads to nocks breaking and losing some vanes. However, the glue has never given out on me.
The glue dries clear and is tinted on application, making it easier to see on certain colored fletchings. I’ve seen write-ups that this is great for inserts, so I used it on a dozen inserts. It works well, but I did have one get pulled off. The biggest problem is that there are a couple I want to remove, but I can’t because the glue is doing such a great job.
I have only had to re-fletch when I’ve shot through my veins. The bottle is still working but I have put a needle into it a few times to clean out the tip. Glue dries fast but can be cleaned easily if it oozes out. Basically, I clean my arrow and blazer veins with my girlfriend’s fancy nail polish remover/primer, attach my vein, wait less than 30 seconds while pushing down, and remove the clamp. Then I wipe away any extra glue.
Overall, this is a great glue that I can’t say enough good things about. The only downside is the bottle. The applicator tip is just too big, making applying glue to vanes a bit messy. However, I found a solution by getting a small 1oz bottle with a fine applicator, and I don’t think I’ll ever switch to another glue.
💬FAQ of G5 G-Lock Blu-Glu.
Q: Is it possible to use G5 G-Lock Blu-Glu on arrow wraps?
A: Yes, this glue works very well on arrow wraps. However, it may not dry completely clear, so if you have a white wrap, there may be some visible residue.
Q: Can I use this glue on aluminum arrows?
A: Absolutely, this glue is compatible with aluminum arrows.
Q: What is the drying time for this glue on carbon arrows, and can it be used with Arizona EZ Fletch?
A: This glue dries incredibly fast, usually within a couple of minutes, and can be used with any fletching jig, including the Arizona EZ Fletch. For fast, PRIME-eligible shipping, click “see this seller’s offer” below.
Q: Can I use G5 G-Lock Blu-Glu on wood shafts?
A: While this glue has not been tested on wood shafts, some users have reported that it did not work as well on carbon arrows, and some vanes fell off even after drying. For wood shafts, Max Bond glue may be a better option.
Q: Can G5 G-Lock Blu-Glu be used for inserts as well?
A: Yes, this glue can be used for standard inserts, as it is a fast-set adhesive.
Q: Is it necessary to refrigerate this glue, and is it common for it to dry out after 10 months?
A: Refrigeration is not necessary for this glue, but it may dry out over time. Some users have reported that theirs dried out after 10 months. To prevent this from happening, try sealing the bottle in a vacuum wrap.
Q: What are “hidden insert systems“?
A: Hidden insert systems refer to inserts that are located inside the arrow shaft, such as the HIT system used in Easton Axis 5mm arrows.
Q: What is recommended for removing this glue?
A: While alcohol or acetone can be used to remove this glue, an old timer recommends using fingernail polish remover, which works just as well and even removes excess glue from fingertips using Q-tips or a cloth tip.
#2 Bohning 1309 Ferr-L-Tite
I’ve been using this hot melt glue for a while now to attach field points to my wood arrows, and have to admit, it’s been a great adhesive. What surprised me is that it’s also possible to heat the adhesive to change the points. It’s pretty versatile and works well for inserts too, but I make sure to use enough glue and clean the arrows beforehand for better adhesion.
I did try to use this glue for inserts on my Gold Tip arrows, and applied it liberally on three inserts and sparingly on the other three, then allowed 24 hours for bonding. Then I shot those 6 arrows multiple times at a bag target and then a foam block target. When shot at the bag target, the inserts in all 6 arrows held up well and did not come out. However, once shot at the foam target, the inserts with less adhesive came out of the arrows after only 3 shots. It seems that this glue is better suited for bag targets than foam or Rhinehart targets.
There are positive reviews from other users who used this glue for arrow inserts and field points. One user had lost many field points to straw targets before trying this glue and found that it works wonders at keeping the points in place. Another user used it for metal field points in wood and found it to be a great product. It’s definitely a product to keep on hand in your tackle box or archery kit.
One user reported mixed results when using this glue on carbon arrows. They lost about 50% of their arrowheads inside the target within an hour of shooting, and they found that the glue underperformed compared to other adhesives they’ve used and will be going back to gel-type superglue.
💬FAQ of Bohning 1309 Ferr-L-Tite
Q: How does this hot melt glue stick differ from a regular hot glue stick?
A: This hot melt glue stick is different from regular glue sticks as it melts at much higher temperatures and forms a hard plastic-like substance after cooling. It cannot be used in a glue gun due to its shape and requires a torch to melt.
Q: Is this hot melt glue suitable for carbon arrows or is the blue Bohning hot melt a better option?
A: While this hot melt glue stick can be used on carbon arrows, the blue Bohning hot melt is a better option as it has a lower melting temperature, reducing the chance of scorching the shafts.
#3 Bohning Fletch Fuse Instant Glue
As an archer who’s been doing my own arrows and bolts, I must say Arrow Insert Glue works great for me. However, I did learn the hard way that it’s essential not to put glue on the jig. This ensures that the jig remains clean and free of any unwanted glue residue.
Anyway, it’s still a good option that works on all shaft types.
One thing I noticed is that the nozzle tends to clog if you don’t use the whole bottle in one sitting. I managed to unclog it once by using a straight pin, but it only opened up a tiny hole that required a lot of pressure to get out a small drop of glue. Frankly, it was too much trouble.
After that experience, I straightened a paper clip and left it in the nozzle until the next use. It worked out better than the straight pin, but it’s still difficult to remove the paper clip from the nozzle.
How’s the solidification?
I bought two bottles and put them in my kit, but when I needed to fix a loose fletch, both bottles had dried out in their unopened containers. That was frustrating.
Despite the difficulties with the bottles, I think the product itself does what it’s supposed to do. I started using it about a month ago, and I am very pleased with the results. The glue sets up within seconds and creates a strong bond. I’ve used it with both straight and helical jigs, and it produced good results on both. However, it’s important to note that the glue sets up extremely quickly, so there’s no real second chance without starting over again
💬FAQ of Bohning Fletch Fuse Instant Glue
Q: Is this adhesive suitable for attaching inserts on Gold Tip arrows?
A: My personal experience with this adhesive has been limited to fletchings. However, considering its strong bonding properties, it may work for inserts as well. Although, I generally prefer using insert-specific adhesives for my inserts, but that might just be me overthinking.
Q: What is the quantity of bottles included?
A: The product comes in a pack of two bottles.
#4 Cir-Cut Archery Super Grip Hot Melt Glue Stick
I’ve used it to apply my field points, and I haven’t lost a single one yet. It’s a great product, and I’ll definitely be ordering it again in the future.
This hot melt glue stick is primarily used by bowyers and fletchers in bow/arrow making, but it has a myriad of practical uses beyond that. I keep one of these sticks in my larger packs, and it’s easy to activate it with a lighter.
When it comes to applying this glue, I found it easy to use. First, I used a cotton swab with rubbing alcohol to thoroughly clean the inside of my carbon shaft. Then, I used a hot air gun to cleanly heat up the insert to 400F. I applied the glue over the insert, inserted it into the shaft, and waited a day for it to cure. It holds the point like crazy, and if I need to remove the tips, I just apply a little heat.
Then, I made a homemade arrow this month
I also used this glue for attaching arrow points to the shaft, and it worked amazingly well.
Out of all the adhesives I’ve tried for my inserts in carbon arrows, this glue has been the best so far. The other adhesives caused my broadheads and inserts to come off, but this glue has held strong.
Extra surprise
A friend recommended this glue for gluing my fishing rod tip to the pole as a stronger adhesive, and it works great. I’ve done a few and have had no complaints. In fact, it works better than the last ferrel cement that they sell for rodbuilding.I’ve used it for primitive fishing rod making in the field, and it’s great stuff.
While this glue dries incredibly quickly, almost to the point of uselessness, it does hold a bond like no other. It’s a great product that I would definitely recommend.
This glue is a must-have in your tackle box. When you have a rod tip break, this stuff is easy to use and fantastic for on-the-fly repairs.
Drawbacks
This glue has a melting point that is too high for standard hot melt pots, and even with fast hands, it’s impossible to get an insert installed before it dries. I had high hopes for this glue, but it was disappointing.
#5 Gold Tip Grip Arrow Adhesive
I found that the glue held the fletchings in place very firmly, and I was able to fletch three fins to my arrow in less than 30 minutes thanks to the quick cure time. Plus, the glue joint looks clean and professional.
It dries so fast!
However, I must admit that this glue can be challenging to work with since it dries incredibly fast. You have to make sure you have everything in place before gluing, or it will be set up in just a few seconds. The plastic bottle is also quite rigid, making it difficult to apply the correct amount of adhesive to the fletching. I had to squeeze the bottle quite hard to get the glue flowing, resulting in getting more glue on the fletching than necessary. The excess glue also got all over my fletching jig, and it took a while to scrape it off.
I applied it to my carbon arrows
The cap has a pin that plugs the hole to keep it clear, and the adhesive is so strong that it held the inserts in place perfectly. I’ve used this glue for a couple of years now, and the shelf life is phenomenal. I keep it in the refrigerator, as instructed, and it’s still as good as new. The adhesive is a cyanoacrylate, like superglue, but it’s of higher quality. I’ve fletched over 30 arrows with it, and I still have enough to do probably another 60.
One thing to note is that this glue can eventually work itself free, so I’ve started using an epoxy-based adhesive for certain applications. However, for on-the-fly repairs, this glue dries fast and holds strong, making it a great product to have on hand. Overall, it works as advertised and is a solid choice for fletching and inserting arrows. I recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable adhesive for their archery needs.
💬FAQ of Gold Tip Grip Arrow Adhesive
Q: Is there any difference between this and “Super Glue”?
A: While the formulation of this glue is similar to that of super glue, the benefit of buying a fletching glue is that it has been specifically chosen for its effectiveness with arrows. Additionally, it comes with a better applicator than most superglues. if you are interested and want to know more about superglue, feel free to read my analysis on the super glue and baking soda strength test.
Q: Is this adhesive waterproof?
A: Yes, it is.
Q: How long does it take to set?
A: It sets up very quickly, usually in just a few seconds. It’s recommended to wait about five minutes before relying on the bond.
Q: Can the inserts be easily removed with an insert removal tool after being glued?
A: Once the insert has been properly glued, it can only be removed by destructively removing the arrow from around it.
Q: Is the nozzle small enough to apply a tiny line on a feather’s quill, and does the cap have a pin to prevent the nozzle from clogging?
A: The cap has a metal pin to keep the tip clear. The nozzle hole is about the size of a ballpoint pen tip, so it should work well for applying a small line on a feather’s quill.
Q: Can this be used on fiberglass arrows?
A: Yes, it works well on fiberglass arrows, as well as on a variety of other materials.
Q: How many inserts can be glued with one bottle of this glue?
A: The number of inserts that can be glued with one bottle of this glue varies depending on how much glue is used per arrow and how much is wasted. Quality is more important than quantity.
Q: Does this work for nocks as well?
A: Unfortunately, there is no response available for this question.
Q: Does it dry clear or white like some other glues?
A: It dries clear, just like other cyanoacrylate glues.
Q: How well does the glue last for reusing after storage?
A: The glue has a fantastic shelf life and can be stored for a long time without losing its effectiveness. The bottle comes with a needle built into the cap to help prevent clogging.
Q: Can this glue be used for tips?
A: It works well for plastic arrow tips, and it has held up well in camp archery settings.
Q: Will the glue turn white if smoothed out?
A: There should be no issue with the glue turning white when smoothed out, as it dries clear.
Q: Does this glue produce fumes?
A: It has a faint smell, but it is not overpowering or intolerable for most people.
Q: Is this adhesive waterproof?
A: While it is likely waterproof, there is no definitive answer available.
Q: How long does it need to set for inserts before being shot?
A: It is recommended to wait at least an hour before shooting an arrow with newly inserted inserts, although vanes can be set in less than a minute.
Q: Is there anything that needs to be done to make the bottle usable?
A: As long as the bottle has not been previously opened, there should be no issues with the glue already being set.
Q: What is the shelf life of the glue once opened?
A: The glue has a long shelf life as long as the cap is replaced immediately after each use to prevent hardening.
Q: Will this glue work on carbon express arrows?
A: While there is no guarantee, it has been successfully used to glue inserts on Easton Carbon Raider Platinum arrows, so it should work on carbon express arrows as well.
#6 Easton Dr. Dougs Quickbond Insert Adhesive
Previously, I had purchased the Bohning Insert Iron, which served its purpose, but I often found myself leaving a few tips inside the 3D foam targets. So, I decided to put this glue to the test alongside the Insert Iron. Here’s what worked for me: I applied the insert iron at the bottom of the insert and then added a couple of small lines of quickbond about 1/4″ before the end. This combination allowed for ample glue at the bottom and the highly effective quickbond at the top, especially where the thicker part of the insert meets the end of the shaft.
The glue performs just as advertised, if not better. Apart from making new arrows, I also used it to repair a dozen inexpensive arrows that have now become reliable and sturdy. Furthermore, the delivery was prompt, which was an added bonus. From my experience, I can confidently say that I won’t be using any other glue for my arrow needs.
The bonding strength of this glue is impressive, and it does hold up well to impacts. However, one drawback I encountered was that the cap tended to become stuck to the bottle, and in my attempt to open it forcefully, I ended up tearing the entire bottle. I would recommend storing it in cool and dark places to prevent this issue. On the bright side, the slight delay in bonding allows for some time to make fine adjustments, unlike one of the models from ‘Goat Tuff’ that I tried before and ruined a couple of arrows due to its quick bond.
#7 Arizona Archery Enterprises AAE Max Impact Insert Glue .7 oz.
In my experience, this glue holds up well, but it doesn’t have the same level of adhesion as epoxy. However, I must admit that my expectations were quite high, coming from epoxy, which is known for its strong bond. The advantage of this hot melt glue is that it allows for adjustments without ruining the arrows, unlike epoxy. So, while it may not hold as tightly as I had hoped, it offers more flexibility in arrow maintenance and adjustments.
It has become my go-to choice for gluing field points and broadheads onto my wooden arrows. It provides a secure bond that gives me confidence in the durability of my arrows. However, I must acknowledge that there are other options available at a lower price point. In the future, I may explore those alternatives before making another purchase, as this product is slightly overpriced.
When it comes to application, this glue is a breeze to work with. I cleaned the inside of my carbon shaft with rubbing alcohol and used a hot air gun to heat up the insert. Once heated, I applied the glue over the insert, inserted it into the shaft, and allowed it to cure for a day. It was an easy and effective process that ensured a strong bond between the insert and the shaft.
Despite the positive aspects of this glue, I did encounter an issue with my arrowheads. Surprisingly, I lost about 50% of them inside the target within an hour of shooting. This outcome was unexpected and disappointing, as I had high hopes for the glue’s performance. As a result, I have decided to switch back to a gel-type superglue for securing my arrowheads.
I’m Ronald Stevens, a Mechanical Engineer obsessed with adhesives, glue, and all things sticky! My passion began in childhood when I’d always be the one playing with glue during arts and crafts. And I’d spend hours researching and experimenting. Happy reading, and remember: stick with the best, and you’ll never be stuck in a mess!
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