Bolts generally contribute to the appearance of your model. There is something to be said for each method of wing attachment. The main problem seems to be reusing the same bands over and over. mikenrhtx said it all. Use them once and toss 'em. I keep spares in the refrigerator. Don't know if it makes any difference in their longevity, it's just that I thought it would. In any case the only model I have that uses gummi bands is a sailplane. Converted everything elso to bolts and do the same with each new airplane.