Help with bow finish.

[Rupe]

#6193

I just picked up 2 unfinished Hickory bows. They just need to be sanded and a finish put on them. I have never tried finishing a bow, I have always shot the same Bear Kodiak hunter for the past 43 years and thought I would go a little more primitive and found these 2 bows.

So what I would like help with is what finish should I use?

I have some Minwax Wood finish. It says it Penetrates, Stains, and Seals. But in fine print it says interior use only. Can I use this and then put something over it to keep it from being damaged from the elements? or do I need to buy something else?

Any and all help would be awesome. Thank you for your help!

Rupe (rhymes with Loop)

[David Petersen]

#48701

Rupe — I’ve tried just about everything on wood bows I’ve made in the past, and have come to believe that both practically and “spiritually” a good rubbing with tung oil is the way to go. It protects the wood without adding gloss, making for a lovely yet flat finish so it won’t glint.

Clay Hayes and several others here have far more experience in this arena, so let’s hope they see your question.

[Rupe]

#48958

Thank you for the info. I give it a try if others that you mentioned don’t jump in with thier thoughts.

Rupe

[coastalbendbows]

#52162

For an all wood natural bow to keep it looking natural I would use tung oil or either tru-oil. Put on a latex glove and pour it into your hand and rub away. It will eventually soak in and seal it. Tru-oil will give it that gun stock looking finish. Then you can just barnish it lightly with a green scrubby pad to knock off the glossiness.

Hope this helps you out.

[Rupe]

#52237

Thank you, it looks like maybe tung oil is the way to go unless anyone has anymore Ideas.

Rupe

[coastalbendbows]

#52296

A couple good coats of wax over the summer also helps preserve the finish.

[Rupe]

#52357

coastalbendbows wrote: A couple good coats of wax over the summer also helps preserve the finish.

Thanks, What type of wax would I use? Bee’s wax, Pledge???

Like I said I know nothing about finish and bows. My Bear Kodiak has been camo painted for over 30 years so I haven’t had to do anything to it plus with the fiberglass I don’t think you have to apply anything any way.

Thanks again for your time to help me out!

Rupe

[coastalbendbows]

#52407

Here’s a link from yew tree archery. I can’t remember what wax it is I use as I’m at the fire station today. But any furniture wax without silicone will work.

http://www.yewtreearchery.co.uk/care-of-your-longbow.htm

[Rupe]

#52532

Thanks for the link!

Rupe

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