Hi Herb: I sent you a PM, yesterday, with an inexpensive source assuming you use the 40% off coupon (Hobby Lobby BSI brand). I have used it for close to two years and 300 barrels. It dries clear, has a working time of 5 minutes and
cures in 30 minutes, but I wait an hour. I have also used the following:
At least of supplier sells this:
http://www.amazon.com/Mercury-Adhes...1412309&ref_=sr_1_19&s=merchant-items&sr=1-19
Hobby Lobby sells this (and you get 40% with their coupon):
5-Minute Quick-Cure Epoxy | Hobby Lobby | 1027614
Exotics sells this:
Exotic Blanks :: Wooden Wonders CA Glues :: Epoxy Glues :: E-Z Bond 5 Min Epoxy - Please Choose 4 or 8 oz Size
Rockler (as you know):
BarrelBond 5-Minute Epoxy Gel Glue, 2 oz. (1001K04) - Rockler Woodworking Tools
I bought this twice - no complaints, but don't see the difference..perhaps there is one, but I have not been able to detect one.
CSUSA and almost any store that sells hardware, home goods, etc sells this, but it takes longer to cure (12 hours and I have found it to have a tint of amber - but I never see it because I paint the inside of all barrels or use opaque blanks:
https://www.woodturnerscatalog.com/p/15/4827/Gorilla-Glue-5-Minute-Epoxy. Some of their line and others claim to fill gaps - which is a nice property if needed.
I don't state that any of them are the "best" or will survive anything other than affixing tubes to barrels (not to minimize John's question about application/intended use - excellent variables to consider!), and using a pen to write with under normal writing conditions
.
I had the same question when I switched over to epoxy (from CA), I didn't understand why there were so many types, curing times, etc.
I did learn the difference between working, setting and curing time real fast and the hard way (but just once).
If you discover something that you like better, please share it with me/us. I am content with the above and another 2 or 3 that I tried, but love to learn about what others like.