Let’s Dive into Saunders NPV Cement
Saunders NPV Cement is a staple in any archer’s toolkit, and for good reason. Saunders, a trusted name in archery supplies, offers this cement as a reliable adhesive for fletching arrows. My years in the field have taught me that even the best arrows are only as good as their fletching, and proper adhesion is key to consistent flight and accuracy.
What brought me to Saunders NPV Cement wasn’t a sudden epiphany, but a persistent problem. I was tired of vanes peeling off mid-flight, especially during practice sessions where arrow retrieval could be tedious enough. I needed something dependable, that would withstand the rigors of repeated use and varied weather conditions.
Unboxing Saunders NPV Cement is uneventful, as it should be. The packaging is simple and functional, a small bottle containing the cement. Upon opening, the aroma is…distinctive. The scent isn’t pleasant, a characteristic common to many adhesives of this type, but not overpowering.
I’ve used other fletching cements before, notably Bohning Fletch-Tite Platinum and Easton Fletch-Tite. I chose Saunders NPV Cement because of its reputation for bonding vanes and feathers to a variety of shaft materials, including aluminum, wood, and fiberglass, where others excel in a more limited scope. Furthermore, Saunders‘ reputation for durability swayed my decision.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. It looked and smelled like a serious adhesive, and I was ready to put it to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting Saunders NPV Cement to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground was my home archery range, a modest setup in my backyard. I used Saunders NPV Cement to fletch a dozen arrows, mixing aluminum and carbon shafts. I wanted to see how it handled different surfaces.
The cement applied smoothly, and the vanes seemed to grip the shafts well. I shot the fletched arrows over the next several days, paying close attention to any signs of loosening or separation. I also intentionally shot some arrows in light rain to simulate less-than-ideal hunting conditions.
The results were encouraging, after my first use experience the vanes adhered remarkably well. There were no immediate issues.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and hundreds of shots, the Saunders NPV Cement continued to impress. The fletching remained securely attached to the shafts. Even after multiple trips to the range and a few accidental impacts with hard surfaces, the vanes showed no signs of peeling.
The durability of the cement is commendable. I’ve noticed no significant signs of wear and tear on the fletching, even after prolonged exposure to sunlight and moisture. The arrows I fletched with Saunders NPV Cement have held up far better than those I previously used lesser brands for.
Maintaining fletched arrows is straightforward. I occasionally wipe them down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. The Saunders NPV Cement doesn’t require any special cleaning or maintenance procedures. It’s truly a fit-and-forget solution!
In comparison to my previous experiences with other fletching cements, Saunders NPV Cement clearly outperforms them. It provides a stronger, more reliable bond that withstands the rigors of regular use.
Breaking Down the Features of Saunders NPV Cement
Specifications
Saunders NPV Cement is specifically designed to bond vanes, feathers, or plastic to aluminum, glass, or wood shafts. It’s a versatile adhesive suitable for a wide range of archery applications.
This cement’s ability to bond to various shaft materials is crucial because it allows archers to use it on different arrow types without needing multiple adhesives. The secure bond is important for consistent arrow flight and accuracy. It prevents vanes from detaching during flight.
Performance & Functionality
Saunders NPV Cement excels at its primary function: securely attaching fletching to arrow shafts. It creates a strong and durable bond that withstands the impact of repeated shooting and exposure to various weather conditions. The adhesion holds its strength, even with high-speed bows.
The strength of the bond is a major strength, but the application can be a little messy if you’re not careful. It’s essential to apply a thin, even layer of cement to the vane base to ensure a secure bond without excess glue seeping out. A bit of practice will soon have you mastering it.
Overall, Saunders NPV Cement meets and exceeds my expectations. Its reliable performance and versatility make it an essential tool for any archer.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Saunders NPV Cement bottle is simple and functional. The bottle is small enough to easily fit in a range bag or toolkit. The applicator tip is designed for controlled application, but can be prone to clogging if not properly cleaned after each use.
The cement has a moderately viscous consistency that makes it easy to apply. However, it does have a strong odor, so it is advisable to use it in a well-ventilated area. The application process is easy.
Durability & Maintenance
When properly applied, fletching attached with Saunders NPV Cement is very durable. It can withstand hundreds of shots without showing signs of loosening or separation. The cement itself appears to be resistant to cracking or drying out, even after prolonged use.
Maintaining fletched arrows is simple: remove any dirt or debris, and inspect the fletching for damage. There is no special care required for the cement itself.
Accessories and Customization Options
Saunders NPV Cement doesn’t come with any additional accessories, as it is a standalone product. However, it is compatible with a wide range of vanes and feathers from various brands. It also works well with different arrow wraps, allowing for customization of arrow appearance and performance.
The compatibility with various fletching and wrap options allows archers to personalize their arrows to their specific needs and preferences. The options are limitless for customization.
Pros and Cons of Saunders NPV Cement
Pros
- Creates a strong and durable bond that withstands repeated use and various weather conditions.
- Versatile adhesive suitable for bonding vanes and feathers to aluminum, glass, or wood shafts.
- Easy to apply with a moderately viscous consistency and a bottle designed for controlled application.
- Compatible with a wide range of vanes, feathers, and arrow wraps from various brands, allowing for customization.
- Cost-effective solution for fletching arrows, offering excellent value for its performance and reliability.
Cons
- Has a strong odor that may require use in a well-ventilated area.
- The applicator tip can be prone to clogging if not properly cleaned after each use.
Who Should Buy Saunders NPV Cement?
Saunders NPV Cement is perfect for archers of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced professionals. It’s particularly well-suited for those who fletch their own arrows and demand a reliable and versatile adhesive. Hunters, target shooters, and recreational archers will all benefit from its strong bond and ease of use.
Those who prefer odorless adhesives or who are highly sensitive to chemical smells might want to explore other options. Similarly, if you only work with carbon fiber shafts, adhesives specifically formulated for carbon might offer slightly better adhesion.
A fletching jig is a must-have accessory when using Saunders NPV Cement, as it ensures proper vane alignment and secure adhesion. Arrow wraps can also enhance the bond and allow for customization.
Conclusion on Saunders NPV Cement
Saunders NPV Cement is a reliable and versatile adhesive that delivers on its promise of providing a strong and durable bond for fletching arrows. Its compatibility with various shaft materials, vanes, and feathers makes it a valuable addition to any archer’s toolkit.
At a price of $9.95, Saunders NPV Cement offers excellent value. The cost is easily justified.
I would highly recommend Saunders NPV Cement to any archer seeking a dependable and cost-effective solution for fletching arrows. It’s a must-have for anyone serious about archery. Get your bottle of Saunders NPV Cement today and experience the difference a quality adhesive can make!