Bohning Jig Clamp Release Tape Review

The Bohning Jig Clamp Release Tape: More Than Just a Sticker

For any archer who fletches their own arrows, the mundane task of ensuring glue doesn’t permanently bond to fletching jig clamps is a persistent nuisance. This is precisely where the Bohning Jig Clamp Release Tape comes into play. As an experienced gear specialist, I’ve encountered countless materials and tools designed to streamline processes, and this seemingly simple product from Bohning aims to solve a very specific, yet common, problem. I was on the hunt for a reliable solution after a particularly frustrating session where fletching cement stubbornly clung to my clamps, making cleanup a chore and potentially impacting clamp alignment for future jobs. My initial impressions of these tapes were that they were a straightforward, perhaps even rudimentary, fix, but the real test would be in their application and longevity. Considering the cost, I also briefly looked at generic Teflon tape options, but Bohning’s specialized product for fletching jigs piqued my interest. My immediate reaction was one of practical curiosity, hoping for a quick and effective resolution to a recurring annoyance.

Real-World Testing: Putting Bohning Jig Clamp Release Tape to the Test

I primarily tested these release tapes in my home workshop, the designated zone for all my arrow-building endeavors. The environment is generally clean but prone to the occasional dust mote and, crucially, the presence of various adhesives. I applied the tapes to a set of standard Bohning fletching clamps, ensuring a clean, dry surface first.

First Use Experience

The application itself was straightforward; peeling the backing and carefully aligning the tape onto the clamp surfaces was intuitive. My first real test came immediately after applying a fresh batch of fletching cement. As I lifted the clamp from a freshly fletched shaft, there was a distinct lack of the usual sticky resistance.

The cement peeled away cleanly, leaving the clamp surface pristine and ready for the next arrow. I repeated this process several times with different adhesives, including a thicker epoxy and a solvent-based cement. In all cases, the tapes performed as advertised, preventing any significant adhesion.

There were no immediate issues, and the process felt significantly smoother than my prior experiences without the tape. The tapes remained adhered to the clamps without any peeling or lifting, even when I applied moderate pressure during the fletching process.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, which involved fletching approximately two dozen arrows, the Bohning Jig Clamp Release Tape continued to perform admirably. I noticed no degradation in its non-stick properties, and more importantly, no signs of wear and tear on the tape itself.

The Teflon laminate has proven remarkably durable, resisting the abrasive nature of some of the stiffer fletching cements I’ve used. There have been no instances of the tape cracking, becoming stiff, or showing any signs of peeling away from the clamp base, even after multiple cycles of clamping and unclamping.

Maintenance has been nonexistent; a quick wipe down with a dry cloth is all that’s ever been needed. Compared to my previous experiences using generic solutions or attempting to clean dried cement off bare metal clamps, these tapes represent a significant upgrade in terms of both ease of use and long-term reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Bohning Jig Clamp Release Tape

Specifications

The Bohning Jig Clamp Release Tape comes as a pair of teflon laminated tapes, specifically designed for application onto fletching clamps. Each tape is precisely cut to fit the common clamp designs, ensuring full coverage of the critical surfaces where adhesive contact is most problematic. The teflon laminate is the key feature here, providing a low-friction, non-stick surface that is essential for preventing adhesives from bonding.

The Teflon laminate material is chosen for its inherent non-stick properties and its resistance to a wide range of chemicals commonly found in fletching adhesives. This material is also durable enough to withstand the repeated clamping and unclamping actions inherent in arrow building. The primary purpose is to act as a sacrificial, yet effective, barrier between your clamp and your adhesive.

These tapes are a consumable item, meaning they will eventually need to be replaced, but their lifespan is considerable given the nature of their application. They are thin enough not to add any bulk or interfere with the normal function of the fletching jig, and their adhesive backing is designed for a secure, long-lasting bond to the clamp itself.

Performance & Functionality

The core function of these release tapes is to prevent adhesives from sticking to fletching clamps, and they excel at this task. Whether using traditional fletching cement, specialized glues, or even stronger epoxies, the tapes create an effective barrier that allows for clean release after each fletching application. This significantly reduces the time and effort required for cleanup, a common frustration among DIY arrow builders.

The non-stick performance is consistent across various adhesive types I tested. This translates directly into a smoother workflow, allowing for more arrows to be fletched in a single session without the interruption of scraping dried glue off clamps. The tapes also maintain their effectiveness even with repeated use over an extended period.

While they perform their primary job exceptionally well, it’s important to note they are a simple solution and don’t offer any additional functionality beyond their intended purpose. However, for what they are designed to do, they are highly effective and meet expectations with considerable margin.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Bohning Jig Clamp Release Tape is purely functional, prioritizing ease of application and effective coverage. The tapes are pre-cut, eliminating the need for precise cutting with a blade which could lead to uneven edges or accidental damage. The adhesive backing is strong enough to hold the tape securely in place without being overly aggressive, which is important for long-term clamp integrity.

Ergonomically, once applied, they become an integrated part of the clamp. There are no protrusions or awkward textures that would affect the feel or handling of the jig during use. The smooth, low-friction surface of the Teflon is the key ergonomic benefit, enabling the clamp to glide effortlessly over the fletching rather than snagging.

The minimalist design ensures they are unobtrusive. You forget they are there, allowing you to focus entirely on the fletching process. This seamless integration is the hallmark of good design in tools of this nature.

Durability & Maintenance

In terms of durability, these tapes are surprisingly robust for their intended application. While they are a consumable item and will eventually wear out, the Teflon laminate material is resistant to the chemicals in most fletching adhesives and the mechanical stress of clamping. I have yet to experience any significant wear or tearing after weeks of regular use.

Maintenance is virtually non-existent. Unlike bare metal clamps that can accumulate dried adhesive residue, the tapes simply require a light wipe-down to remove any stray dust or debris. There are no specific maintenance tips beyond ensuring the initial application is clean and smooth.

The potential failure point would be the adhesive backing losing its tack over time or if the tape itself is physically damaged. However, based on my experience, this seems unlikely under normal fletching conditions. They are designed to be replaced when worn, rather than requiring extensive upkeep.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Bohning Jig Clamp Release Tape comes as a pair, serving as the primary “accessory” to your fletching clamps. There are no additional accessories included, nor are there options for customization in terms of color, size, or material beyond the standard Teflon laminate.

This product is designed for a specific purpose and integrates directly with compatible Bohning fletching clamps, and by extension, many other standard fletching jig clamps on the market. Its simplicity means there are no complex compatibility issues to consider. The pair of tapes is the complete package for this particular task.

Pros and Cons of Bohning Jig Clamp Release Tape

Who Should Buy Bohning Jig Clamp Release Tape?

This product is an absolute must-have for any serious archer or archery enthusiast who fletches their own arrows using a mechanical jig. If you’ve ever spent frustrating minutes chipping away at dried glue on your fletching clamps, these tapes are for you. They are ideal for home builders, bow shop technicians, and anyone who values efficiency and a clean workspace.

Individuals who only occasionally fletch arrows might find the initial investment unnecessary if they are willing to endure the cleanup. Similarly, those using very specialized or non-traditional fletching methods might not benefit as much. I would recommend ensuring your clamps are standard Bohning or a similar design before purchasing to guarantee fitment.

Conclusion on Bohning Jig Clamp Release Tape

The Bohning Jig Clamp Release Tape is a simple yet incredibly effective solution to a common problem faced by arrow builders. Its Teflon laminate construction provides a reliable, non-stick surface that dramatically simplifies cleanup and improves the overall fletching workflow. For its price of $8.49 for a pair, the value proposition is exceptionally high, saving time, frustration, and potentially the lifespan of your fletching clamps.

I wholeheartedly recommend these tapes to anyone who fletches their own arrows. They are a small addition that makes a significant positive impact on the process, turning a tedious chore into a much smoother operation. If you’re invested in building your own arrows, do yourself a favor and invest in these tapes; you won’t regret it.