Hardener

[shockley32]

I'm trying to use up the last of my calhouns - note only buy CCM plastic from now on!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  Any rate I have some left, it is suppose to be soft, however it feels more like super soft.  I have mixed the daylights out of it, first thoughts were I didn't have it mixed up enough, I can assure you it has been stirred plenty.  Now to the question, approximately how much hardener would I need to add to five gallons to make it close to regular/medium???

Thanks,

Brad

[kipbass]

Normally companies like Lurecraft or M-F has such information posted on their sites. They will reply to emails in a speedy manner too.

[Jason]

I would check with the mfg.  It really depends on the hardener.  I have some calhouns hardener I will donate to the cause if you need it.  I don't know if this is normal or not, but it is super thick - like peanut butter thick.  Let me know if you want it.

Jason

[Dave]

I too have switched from Calhoun to Plastisol. I think Calhoun would be good for baits that need to be really soft, but in my opinion the Plastisol has really impressed me.   

[vlada101]

I can't find on forum, when can I add hardener .... before cooking or after cooking plastic (or it is irelevant)? I need just a little bit hard bait ... have ccm hardener

[ctom]

I'd add it before heating but you can do so after the initial cook too. I'd only do a couple drops at a time to 4 ounces until you how the plastic handles it. 

[vlada101]

Thanks for fast answer

[pjmcla]

Also; as the baits cure they will firm up some.   

[Bugpac]

4 lbs hardber to 40 lbs of plastic. Do not add it after heating. It will not mix in good. Calhouns that is.

[XFactorTackle]

The only hardener I have used must be added before heating, if you add it to hot plastic it will turn the hardener into rock hard plastic clumps.

Jeff

[BareKnuckleJigs]

Gotta chime in here...

As was mentioned in the "Plastic 101" thread, Softener is only Plasticizer, but Hardener is PVC-concentrated Plastisol.  Because Hardener is what it is, it must be cooked to 350 like any Plastisol for it to go through its change.  Softener doesn't have to be "cooked properly", but Hardener does.  CCM plastisol is softer than other brands.  I was adding 2 ounces of Hardener to 12 ounces of Plastisol to get a decent Saltwater Density.