Finish for Duck Call

Re: Finish for Duck Call

John Trant (aka Boxes-n-Bowls)

>If you have a good finish with the CA then you don't need anything else. Personally, I like a Watco-type of wipe-on oil finishes (commercial or home-brew) for items that will be handled extensively. It is easily repaired and allows a great patina to develop.

John

Re: Finish for Duck Call

Eric

>Is Watco enough to give me good protection? I had considered using a spray laquer like Deft or a poly instead of the CA. What will give me the best protection since these calls will likely be used in the rain? Thank you for your input!

Re: Finish for Duck Call

Don Evans

>Would seem logical to use same finish as on wooden gun stocks. One is Tru-Oil, leaves a hard protective finish and is safe to handle. The more you apply the shiner the finish so if it gets too shiny for your taste you can cut it back with 0000 wool.

Then wax and buff it if you like but probably will not need it.

Don

Re: Finish for Duck Call

John Trant (aka Boxes-n-Bowls)

>Lacquer and shellac do not do well in high moisture enviroments and would be the only finishes I would not recommend. Without question, multiple coats of varnish will provide the hardest and most water-resistant protection. Watco will seal the wood but it does not produce a film so the wood is exposed to the elements which is why it develops a hand-worn patina. To repair the finish if damaged, the varnished call will need to be stripped off and totally refinished. The Watco call simply needs a light sanding and the application of another coat or two. I suggested the Watco because my Dad's and grandfather's old call do not appear to have a film finish. Of course, these calls may have originally been varnished which was worn off through the years of use.

John

Re: Finish for Duck Call

Ray Taylor

>Eric,

I've just started making calls and was wondering the same thing. I currently use a Tommy Alexander Reelfoot call made from cocobolo. His finish is just linseed oil. Recommend a re-wiping once a year. I've had the call in all sorts of weather over the last 5 years and it's developing a great patina.

I thought of laquer and wouldn't mind having a gloss on a few of them...but then the moisture thing comes to mind. To start, I'm just going to use a danish oil (watco).

I began with the hut kits but moved on to a more custom style. If I ever get one I'm truly happy with I'll post a picture. I got a jig from a guy on e-bay to cut the toneboards and use the mandrel and reamer from hut.

Ray