Replacement Heads

Rod VanZile

Active member
I have about 5 dozen Herters model 72's that need replacement heads, Would like to replace the plastic ones with durable urethane foam heads. Any recommendations for a supplier?

Thanks in advance.

RVZ
 
Homers decoy heads are about as tough as you,ll find and fit the #72 perfectly. Make sure you get new stainless eye bolts with them of proper lenght.
 
The homer heads are tough but require a special primer paint to get finish paint to hold.
I like autumn wings wood heads better. Just my 2 cents.
 
Rod~


As you have 5 dozen 72s I'm guessing they are Broadbill?


In any event, the Homer's are indeed durable - but do need special care to get paint to stick. I hit them with a torch to activate the plastic before coating with epoxy + sawdust. Definitely an outside job for safety's sake.


I also flatten the mating surfaces of the bases on my table sander to provide a nice, tight seam. I bed the heads in caulk so they will less likely loosen in use and so lines cannot wedge between the necks and bodies.



A dense urethane option is E Allen's - sold by Lou Tisch at Lock, Stock & Barrell.


Regardless of head maker or material, I fill (partially) the bottom recess in the Herter's soft foam with thickened epoxy to reinforce this problem area. The foam often compresses in use and so loosens the head-neck joint.



Whichever head you choose, here's my approach to painting my favorite species:


https://stevenjaysanford.com/tutorial-painting-homer-broadbill/



Hope this helps,


SJS

 
I have gotten some foam heads from Bob Romstadt BRDecoys on FB. He has many, many options available. But all foam heads will not be as durable as Homer heads. I do similar to Steve, always cut the neck bases on the bandsaw for different angles and heights, and do the flame treatment followed by acetone and primer while still warm. I don't find that as any more special than the scrubbing and sanding and cleaning needed on a foam head for good adhesion. In the past I would media blast the Homer heads, but find the flame and primer faster, and I can do it at home. As long as you let the primer cure, all is great as far as adhesion. I have done smooth and restle coated, and see no difference in adhesion, nor have I had any problems. Though like Steve, I too, fix my heads, so I trace them on the body, and shape the body for a smooth transition. I always handle my decoys by the head, loading and unloading from the slotted bags.
 
Thanks Roy,

I looked at their website but couldn't find standard size Broadbill heads. What they offer looks pretty durable.

RVZ
 
Bill,

Thanks for the Autumn Wings suggestion. I like the idea of wooden heads as well. They have a very nice website.

RVZ
 
Steve,

Yes they are Broadbill. I just reworked 7 drake Goldeneye per your tutorial. I too switched to the Home Depot paint samples. Really appreciate all the information you bring to this site.

RVZ
 
Thank you Dave,

I have a rig of E Allen Broadbill and Buffies. They have taken a beating over the years. I am now looking for a realistic head for the Herters 72 bodies. I will look into your suggestion.

RVZ
 
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