What finish??

[Jwilliam]

I just received my kit bow from Mark Horne. This will be my first attempt at building a bow of any kind. I was just wondering what finish I should spray on it when I'm done.


Bill

[bjansen]

I would try a tru oil finish...a couple guys tell you how they do it just a fews posts down.  In my opinion it is the best combination of great results and ease of application (and relatively cheap)......and you dont have to get out the spray equipment.  


 http://tradgang.com/noncgi/ultimatebb.php?ubb=get_topic;f=125;t=001196

[The Gopher]

You can also check out a product called Arm-R-Seal made by General Finishes. it is a thin poly that can be brushed or wiped on and dries quickly. i love it and it is the ony poly i use. but i also liek tru-oil like jansen mentioned.

tru-oil will be easier to find you can get a small bottle at walmart in the sporting goods area.

I have only found Arm-R-Seal at woodworkings stores such as Rockler or Woodcraft.

good luck, Dan.

[Jwilliam]

What about Minwax fast drying poly in a spray can? Will I have any problems with it on the glass?

[kennym]

Hi J,
I have heard the fast dry is not good,I use minwax helmsman spar urethane satin on the few I build. Works good,but on oily wood like coco and such,a couple coats of CA will save a lot of headache with just about any rattlecan finish.

[Bob Sarrels]

I shoot Sherwin-Williams catalized varnish.  Very similar to Fullerplast but I can get it locally.  Unfortunately it comes only in gallons ($40) and the catalist in quarts ($20).  That will shoot a lot of bows.  Very fast flash time and a good hard flexible finish.  I use what they call the Dull Rub Waterwhite .  It is the dullest finish I can get.  If I want a glossier finish I simply don't stir up the flatteners.  Just dip right off the surface of the can.  It mixes 3% catalist.