Hi Brian,

Thanks...

I like the idea of a compromise between varnish and tung oil. I may give that a try. I'm considering putting on protection around the blade ends. How would a mixture of epoxy with Cab-O-Sil and red Microballoons work around the tips? I probably need some UV protection on the epoxy to prevent cracking.

Thanks again for the help!!!

Rich

: After a lot of playing around, I think I've finally found a finish that I'll
: stick with. It's a blend of equal parts of pure tung oil, varnish and
: turpentine. I use Epifanes gloss varnish, but it probably doesn't matter.
: This finish dries within 24 hours to a beautiful satin sheen. It's more
: durable that straight oil finishes, but hot as hard as varnish. The feel
: in the hand is SWEET!

: I apply it just like oil. Wipe it on, allow it to penetrate for a few
: minutes, then wipe off the excess. Three or four coats seems to do a good
: job. For a really smooth finish, apply the last two coats using 400 grit
: wet/dry sandpaper.

: Make sure that you get 100% tung oil. Most commercial products labeled
: "tung oil finish" have little tung oil in them and are actually
: wiping varnishes. I got my tung oil through Lee Valley, but it's available
: through many other sources.

: BTW, I also epoxy coat the tips of my paddles and reinforce the edges of the
: tips with 'glass or Dynel. That's the area that takes the most punishment.