: Anyone had any experience with the inexpensive Campbell-Hausfeld sprayers.

I have just such a sprayer I bought to paint my house, and they are great for that. In fact mine has since painted a half dozen friends homes. It has lasted much longer than I thought it would when I bought it.

Unfortunately I think you need something a little more sophisticated for a nice varnish finish. The S3 website recomends spraying as the best way to apply its` LPU finishes and goes into some detail. Give them a call on their tech help line.

I have read that some paint stores will rent HVLP equipment. If you could find such a place that might be a good way to try one out.

Lastly, I have heard rumors that Joe Greenley has knowledge of sprayed on finishes, that the king was sprayed by a pro? Maybe he will weight in on this topic. For my money he is a burning bush of kayak building knowledge.