Need durable but light finish on red oak

[James Carmichael]

After a couple of false starts, I have finally completed a functioning English long bow made of red oak for my daughter.

I've sanded the wood to 320 and for an authentic, yew sapwood look, want to keep the wood as light as possible, also for contrast with the horn nocks I'll be adding.

Suggestions?

Thanks,

James

[Jim Becker]

Well...if you can find a spar varnish made with soya oil, that would be great. Assuming this bow is a "user", you need a long-oil finish (which is what spar varnish is) that is flexible and will not crack. Soya oil based products are noticeably lighter in color. If this is just a decorative piece, NC lacquer or water bourne acrylic lacquer is what I'd use.

[jerry mayfield]

If you like the golden oak look apply a coat of orange shellac followed by an alkd varnish made with soya oil (stay clearer than most) McCloskey's and Pratt & Lambert 38 are two. Or just the varnish, what ever you decide oak is one of the woods the accepts most finishes very well.

regards
jerry

[James Carmichael]

Thanks, looks like the P&L #38 is what I want.