[Digger]

I've searched and came up with not quite accurate info for my application. I have created a nice hiking staff from Silver Maple. I have it carved and smoothed all the way to 600 grit sandpaper. The surface is shiny-smooth. I want to seal it for durability to be used as a hiking staff, but most of the products I've seen say for interior use only, and the ones for exterior use don't seem to provide the glossy, waterproof finish I'm after. I don't want any stain, I want the natural color of the wood to show. Does anyone have any suggestions?

I've tried acrylic enamel on a different staff, but after a couple hikes, it seems to have worn off the grip area. Is there anything more durable for hiking use?

[squbrigg]

I have just the ticket for you! Easy to make and easy to apply.

50% Boiled Linseed Oil
25% "Gloss" Spar Varnish (oil base)
25% Turpentine

Mix up a batch and wipe on, rub in, or wet sand, and wipe off with a dry cotton rag.....old tee shirt works great. (Careful with disposal later.)

The more coats, the better it protects. To touch up, just apply more.

Bob

[Hi_Ho_Sliver]

Or Polyurathane...is a tough finish, you can get it in gloss if you like....

[Kenny_S]

Digger, I have used Deft clear gloss and semi gloss on hikeing staffs for years and not had any problem with the finish. I have cared many Eagle walking staffs for Eagle Scouts and leaders over the years and they are still being used with no problem.

[Skulli]

I just finished a walking stick and all of my wood is silver maple. I used the minwax combo polyurethane/stain in gloss. They also have satin.

Afterwards, I applied and buffed the devil out of a topcoat of paste wax. Seems to be durable, waterproof and attractive thus far.