First I admit that I am a novice when it come to finishes so my confusion is somewhat based on the lack of education and experience. I often here about BLO, Tung Oil, Danish Oil, Linseed Oil. Teak Oil, Shellac (waxed and dewaxed), Varnish, Laquer, Urethane, Polyurthane, Wipe on (whatever), and Waxes as finishes.
My understanding is that most all finishes (except pure oils 100% BLO, Tung, etc) are varnish based or the comtemporary name: urethane resins. Although it is hard to find something called just "Varnish". Most are called Polyurethane, Urethane, Wipe on Finish and Antique Oil or Tung Oil finish (not 100% pure oil). Is this correct that they are all varnish based? If so, what is the difference?
Here are some examples of name brand finishes that are common off the shelf items either in borg or woodworking speciality stores. What are they in regards to the type of finish i.e. varnished based urethanes? If you read the label, it really does not tell you anything specific or it gives you similar items on the MSDS for the same chemical (urethane resins).
Watco
Sam Maloof
Waterlox
Tried & True
General Finishes
Zinsser
Behlen
Minwax Poly Wipe On
or the 100% pure oils:
Tung
BLO
Teak
So my primary question is: So what is the difference if most finishes are varnish (urethane resin) based? I have disregarded the water vs OIL/VOC based finishes.
My simple answer is: They are essentially all the same, it is the user preference. i.e. Chevy/GMC debate