Finish on new longbow

[Bow man]

I am getting ready to build a new long bow what would everyone recommend for a good very  durable low maintance finish

[TheFatboy]

I've heard much good about Tru Oil. So much good, that I'm gonna try it out myself!

[DCM]

Very durable low maintanence would be a two part catalyzed like Thunderbird, or epoxy glue cut with acetone for diy.  Spar urethane next, then poly, high gloss said to be "harder," then linseed oil based (like tru oil).

[Hud]

Great question. I have heard that Howard Hill preferred Marine Varnish. I personally like the matt finish, and the advantage of using marine varnish is many. It can be brushed, sanded, coats added, and if needed repaired. Most finishes will show scratches, and for me, I like to be able to fix a problem without having to refinish the whole bow.

Glossy finishes are pretty and look nice when new, but have you noticed how some hard glossy finishes tend to develop surface cracks with time? I have several bows like this that need to be refinished, and a couple that have yellowed with age. I want a finish that will avoid these kind of problems. Marine varnish and Tru Oil look like winners. I have also heard that Daley's Profin would be a good one to try.

[Bob Sarrels]

If you are gonna do just one bow I would recommend Helmsman Poly finish.  Don't know if the product is any better but the sprayer is great.  Used it on my first 3 bows but now I look for a much faster curing process.  It takes about 12 hours to cure.

[Bow man]

Thanks everone this has been a great help.