Non-Tautning Nitrate Vs. Butyrate Dope

[Chancey Chorney]

Hi there. So I have a quick little 'dope' question for the knowledgable folks here. This is NOT for a control line model, but for a free flight model, both 18" and 30" wingspan models. I have leftover NON-Tautning butyrate dope from my control line models. I have heard that is still does shrink very marginally. But with that said, do both nitrate and butyrate non-tautning dope behave the same? Or would the nitrate non-tautning dope shrink less than the butyrate variety. I would just like to use up what I have on hand before buying more. Thank you.

If this question is still unclear, let me know and i will try better to describe what I am asking. Thanks again.

[Dan McEntee]

  If they are both non-tautening, they should shrink about the same, depending on how much it's thinned out.  If these are rubber powered models or gliders, just stick with the Nitrate, as it is not fuel resistant in any way. The adhesion properties of the Nitrate are a little better, and that is why some use it for build ups and applying coverings, then finish with Butyrate.  If these are gas powered models, you may want to use this approach.
  Type at you later,
   Dan McEntee

[Chancey Chorney]

Thank you Dan for that. I may still get some nitrate but will be a while before I really need it. Just getting my ducks in a row. The biggest problem here is that I would need to buy a quart of it as it is the smallest quantity available, and would have the rest sitting around afterwards. But if it is the better option, I will do it. Thanks again.

[Fredvon4]

Dan missed a NOT in his last sentence....ig fuel powered do not use nitrate other than as a base coat to be covered with something fuel resistant...proof...