Bohning Arrow Cresting Kit Review

The Honest Truth About the Bohning Arrow Cresting Kit

For anyone looking to add a personalized touch and professional finish to their arrows, the Bohning Arrow Cresting Kit presents a compelling solution. This comprehensive kit aims to demystify the process of arrow cresting, making it accessible to archers of all skill levels. As someone who’s spent over a decade customizing and maintaining equipment across various demanding environments, I approached this kit with a keen eye for functionality and durability.

My journey to this particular cresting kit was driven by a desire for consistency and aesthetic appeal in my archery gear. I was tired of uneven paint jobs and the frustration of trying to achieve clean lines freehand, especially after spending significant time and money on the arrows themselves. The idea of a dedicated tool that could provide stable rotation and a steady platform for painting was highly appealing.

Upon unboxing, the kit exudes a sense of solid craftsmanship. The hardwood base of the crester feels substantial, hinting at a design built for longevity. The inclusion of several colors of Acry-Lac paint and a variety of brushes suggests a thoughtful package designed for immediate use.

I briefly considered some DIY solutions involving drill bits and rudimentary jigs, but the potential for inconsistency and the sheer effort involved quickly steered me away. Ultimately, the allure of a purpose-built system designed by a reputable archery brand like Bohning was too strong to ignore. My initial impression was one of quiet optimism – a feeling that this kit might finally solve my arrow finishing woes.

Real-World Testing: Putting Bohning Arrow Cresting Kit to the Test

My testing ground for this cresting kit was my home workshop, a space that often sees a mix of precision work and more robust tasks, mimicking the varied environments where archers might use their equipment. I specifically set up a clean workbench with good lighting to simulate an ideal cresting environment. The kit was used to paint multiple sets of arrows, encompassing different shaft materials and fletching styles to ensure versatility.

During the initial setup and first use, the Bohning Arrow Cresting Kit performed admirably. The crester’s hardwood base provided excellent stability, and the variable speed dial allowed for fine-tuning the rotation to a pace that felt comfortable and controllable for detailed brushwork. Even with repeated application of paint and occasional slight bumps from the brush, the mechanism held steady.

The included Acry-Lac paints applied smoothly. Their consistency was ideal for brushwork, allowing for good coverage without becoming overly thick or runny. The selection of brushes, particularly the hairline brush, proved invaluable for achieving sharp, precise lines and intricate patterns. I did notice a slight learning curve in modulating the pressure and speed to achieve the perfect stripe on the first few attempts, but this is inherent to any artistic process.

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place on my dedicated workbench in the workshop. This environment provided a stable, well-lit surface, crucial for detailed painting. I was particularly keen to see how the crester handled different arrow weights and lengths, as consistency is paramount in archery.

The crester’s design immediately inspired confidence. The solid hardwood base ensured that the unit wouldn’t shift or vibrate erratically while the arrow was spinning. The variable speed dial is a standout feature, allowing for a wide range of rotational speeds, from a slow, deliberate turn for detailed work to a quicker spin for broader applications.

I experienced no significant issues during the first use. The setup was straightforward, and the included components were ready to go right out of the box. The only minor surprise was how addictive the process became; once you get a feel for the rhythm and the paint application, it’s easy to lose track of time personalizing arrows.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, cresting a dozen arrows for myself and a couple of friends, the Bohning Arrow Cresting Kit continues to impress. The Acry-Lac paints have proven durable, resisting minor scuffs and abrasions from handling and being loaded into bow cases. The brushes, while showing some use, have maintained their shape and effectiveness, indicating good quality bristles.

The crester itself shows no signs of significant wear. The hardwood base remains solid, and the rotational mechanism still operates smoothly. I haven’t encountered any stiffness or degradation in performance, which is a testament to its robust construction.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A quick wipe-down of the crester after each painting session with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. Any dried paint residue on the rollers can be gently scraped away with a plastic tool. The paint jars seal well, preventing the paint from drying out between uses, a common issue with other paint products. Compared to freehand painting or using less specialized tools, this kit significantly reduces the mess and the time commitment.

Breaking Down the Features of Bohning Arrow Cresting Kit

The Bohning Arrow Cresting Kit is designed to provide archers with everything they need to achieve professional-looking arrow cresting at home. It combines a robust piece of equipment with well-chosen consumables and tools. Understanding each component’s role is key to appreciating the kit’s overall value proposition.

Specifications

The kit includes the Bohning Arrow Cresting Kit unit, which features a solid hardwood base for stability. A key specification is its variable speed dial, allowing precise control over the arrow’s rotational speed. This is crucial for achieving consistent paint lines and avoiding drips or uneven coats.

The kit also comes with six 1 oz. jars of Acry-Lac paint. These include essential colors: black, red, yellow, blue, silver, and gold. This selection offers a good starting palette for various custom designs. Additionally, four paint brushes are provided: hairline, 1/8″, 1/4″, and 1/2″. This range of brush sizes caters to both fine detail work and broader coverage. The price point for this comprehensive package is $294.29.

The hardwood base is not merely aesthetic; it contributes significantly to the overall stability of the crester. This stability is paramount when applying delicate paint layers to a spinning arrow. The variable speed dial is arguably the most critical functional specification, as it directly impacts the quality of the cresting. Without this control, achieving consistent results would be significantly more challenging, especially for beginners.

The 1 oz. jars of Acry-Lac paint are a practical size, offering enough product for multiple cresting sessions without being so large that paint might dry out if not used frequently. The inclusion of six distinct colors – including metallics like silver and gold – opens up a wide array of design possibilities right out of the box. The four paint brushes, ranging from a fine hairline to a broader 1/2″ brush, provide the necessary versatility for detailed work, creating stripes, or applying base coats.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Bohning Arrow Cresting Kit is to provide a stable platform for painting arrows. It excels at this task due to its well-engineered crester unit. The solid hardwood base prevents any wobble or movement during rotation, which is essential for clean, consistent lines.

The variable speed dial is a game-changer for cresting. It allows the user to dial in the perfect speed for the specific paint being used and the desired effect. This level of control minimizes errors and maximizes the quality of the finished product. The included Acry-Lac paints are formulated for good adhesion and coverage on arrow shafts, drying to a durable finish.

The main strength of this kit lies in its ease of achieving professional results. Even for someone with limited artistic experience, the combination of the stable crester and quality paints makes cresting a manageable and enjoyable process. Its primary weakness, if one could call it that, is that it still requires user skill and practice to achieve truly complex designs, but the tool itself removes many of the inherent physical challenges.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Bohning Arrow Cresting Kit prioritizes functionality and durability. The solid hardwood base not only provides stability but also lends a classic, workshop-friendly aesthetic. The crester mechanism itself is robust and appears well-built to withstand repeated use.

Ergonomically, the unit is designed for ease of operation. The variable speed dial is intuitively placed and offers smooth adjustments. Loading an arrow onto the crester is straightforward, and the rollers grip the shaft securely without damaging it. The included paint brushes are comfortable to hold, with varying lengths and bristle types designed for controlled paint application.

The finish on the hardwood base is smooth and pleasant to the touch. The metal components of the crester appear to be durable and corrosion-resistant. There are no sharp edges or awkward protrusions, making it safe and comfortable to use for extended periods. The overall feel is one of quality and thoughtful engineering.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on its construction, the Bohning Arrow Cresting Kit is built to last. The solid hardwood base is inherently durable and resistant to dings and scratches common in a workshop environment. The metal components of the crester are also substantial and appear to be made from materials that will resist wear and tear over time.

Maintenance is minimal. The crester mechanism simply requires occasional cleaning to remove any stray paint residue. The rollers should be kept free of debris to ensure smooth rotation. The Acry-Lac paints, being specifically formulated for this purpose, generally offer good durability once cured. I haven’t encountered any specific failure points, but as with any precision tool, keeping it clean and storing it properly will undoubtedly extend its lifespan.

The kit is designed for repeated use without significant degradation. Unlike disposable options or less robust tools, this crester is an investment in long-term arrow customization. Its durability suggests it will remain a valuable tool for many seasons of archery.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Bohning Arrow Cresting Kit comes with a well-curated selection of essential accessories to get you started immediately. The included six 1 oz. jars of Acry-Lac paint (black, red, yellow, blue, silver, gold) provide a solid foundation for a variety of designs. The four paint brushes (hairline, 1/8″, 1/4″, 1/2″) are crucial for executing different patterns and line weights.

While the kit is self-contained, the Bohning Arrow Cresting Kit is designed to be highly compatible with a range of arrow shafts and fletching types. The crester mechanism is adjustable to accommodate various arrow diameters. Beyond the included paints, archers can easily source additional Acry-Lac colors or other compatible acrylic paints to expand their design palette. The brushes are standard sizes and can be replaced if they wear out, but they are of good enough quality that this is unlikely to be an immediate concern.

There aren’t specific “customization options” for the crester unit itself, as it’s a purpose-built machine. However, the true customization comes from the creative application of the included paints and brushes onto the arrows. This kit provides the professional tools; the artistry is left to the user.

Pros and Cons of Bohning Arrow Cresting Kit

Who Should Buy Bohning Arrow Cresting Kit?

The Bohning Arrow Cresting Kit is an ideal choice for serious archers who take pride in their equipment and want to personalize their arrows with professional-looking results. This includes competitive archers, dedicated bowhunters, and serious recreational shooters who frequently fletch and customize their own arrows. If you value aesthetics as much as performance and want to achieve consistent, high-quality cresting without the hassle of DIY solutions, this kit is for you.

Individuals who should probably skip this product are those who only occasionally fletch a few arrows and are content with basic or no cresting. If your budget is very limited and you only need a quick fix, simpler, less expensive methods might suffice. Also, if you have absolutely no interest in the aesthetic aspect of your arrows and focus solely on their functional performance, this investment may not be warranted.

For those purchasing this kit, I highly recommend considering a dedicated workspace with good ventilation, especially when working with paints. It might also be worthwhile to invest in a small selection of additional Acry-Lac paint colors that match your preferred hunting or target aesthetics. A simple stand for drying finished arrows can also be a useful complementary item.

Conclusion on Bohning Arrow Cresting Kit

The Bohning Arrow Cresting Kit delivers on its promise of enabling archers to achieve professional-level arrow cresting with a well-designed, durable, and user-friendly system. The solid hardwood base and variable speed dial of the crester provide the stability and control necessary for creating clean, consistent paint lines. The included Acry-Lac paints and a comprehensive set of brushes offer immediate versatility, allowing users to embark on custom designs right out of the box.

Considering the quality of the equipment, the included consumables, and the potential for creating truly personalized arrows, the $294.29 price tag represents a sound investment for dedicated archers. It’s a tool that will likely last for many years, providing consistent results and enhancing the satisfaction derived from customizing one’s own archery gear.

I would personally recommend the Bohning Arrow Cresting Kit to any archer who values precision, aesthetics, and the satisfaction of a job well done. If you’re looking to elevate your arrow game with custom finishes that look as good as they perform, this kit is an excellent choice that simplifies a formerly complex process.