Bakelite Floorplate
 

Is there any way to prevent these from cracking? If one does get a crack any suggestions to keep it from getting worse other than retiring it?

M, I have perfect new replacements available with pin @$35 or 3 for $100 + $5 S&H. Th

Bakelite woes....
 

Not too much you can do with it as far as stength is concern, but you can use epoxy and paint to fill in defects, it's just that not much sticks to it, and the stuff that does, doesn't stick very well... Old early tube radio restoration forums would be the place to look for answers...They used Bakelite shells almost exclusively in the early 20 century... :cheers:...til...lat'r....GT

Preventive maintenance is your best bet. Don't shoot those old mags... they will continue to increase in value as the years go by... Bust the bottom piece and the value will plummet.

Get yourself some Mec-Gar aftermarket mags that have been upgraded by G.T. for your shooting needs...

This early plastic is basically a resin with filler in it to give it some body.

Has anyone tried repairing these using a modern epoxy resin?
If mixed with black paint, chances are it could work?

And otherwise GT makes the most beautiful reproductions!