Goodday, looking for anyone whose tried these metal ‘glue tips’. I am looking for a better way to apply CA glue to underwing rigging and controlling the amount of flow. These look like they’ll do, but, have never tried them. Opinions or other options? Cheers [*-)]
I use a needle with the eyelet sliced open and held in my pin vise. It holds the right amount of thin CA and I can apply it with pin point accuracy.
So, do you just split the eyelet open with a knife blade, I imagine? I’m liking this inexpensive option already…[Y]
Recently turned on to the Glue Looper - works very well, it’s become a go-to tool for me with CA application - check it out here > creativedynamicllc.com/the-glue-looper.html
i have read this thread so i take it this is not for use with regular model cement.?
I used my cut off wheel in my Dremmel but you can use a blade to carefully score and remove the tip, just takes a little longer than with the Dremmel. If it gets clogged after wiping then hold over a flame for a couple of seconds. The flame will burn off any residue then wipe clean again. Cheap and effective.
I use the needle with eye ground open, but know folks who twist wire into a fork, or use one of many such homemade things. Point is, it is so easy to do this that I wouldn’t pay much money for a premade one.
Thing I like about the needle trick (same as plasticjunky) is that it is strong and can be cleaned of glue remnants with X-acto knife without damage. Some homemade tools are hard to clean and must be discarded frequently.
Ah, yes, that makes sense - `tis why that set has 6 applicators on the sprue. I can easily get hold of sewing needles from a dollar store and discard them as they get too glued up.
Riptide, I am specifically looking for a tool to dispense CA glue, not cement. I am constantly having to do sanding clean-up of over-applied CA glue to the areas surrounding the micro-hole in the wing where the rigging line meets plastic.
So, guys, does the glue just flow offthe sewing needle prongs upon contact with the intended surface? I haven`t had a chance to test this out yet.
Yes, as soon as you touch your intended point, the ca flows out. This is where you need to load the right amount. it takes a little practice but once you have it down it’s a breeze. Works with thick ca too. I use it for rigging WWI planes. Like I said, no need to discard it if clogged, just take a match to it and done.
This is great news and, again, much appreciated.
Try this tip from Darren at the Resin Shipyard (pun intended)
(wow Darren has a big thumb!)
Darren demonstrated this technique a few years ago at the IPMS Nationals. I’ve been using it ever since. I use a length of Teflon RC Aircraft cable sheathing. Cut a piece and stretch it like sprue over a torch flame. A match or candle will work but the torch is faster and cleaner. Place the open end over the spout of the CA bottle. The fine point tip helps minimize air intrusion which will cause your CA to harden on the shelf. It is also easy to get flowing again. When the tip clogs with hardened CA (I’ve had the tip last a month between cloggings) cut back a bit and proceed.
This CA dispenser tip is great for running a length of glue down a fuselage seam or anchoring some PE railing which has been tacked in place.
If you are unable to locate the tubing, Darren will be more than happy to sell you some
Wow, this one’s neat too. I had a devil of a time with the PE handrails on my last 1/700 ship. this looks like something to try to master.


