I made a doz. doug fir woodies and I used the wipe-on polly method (three coats). Over time, the shafts seem to be lightening in color a bit in small spots along the shafts, usually along grain runout lines. I used some wipe-on polly and reapplied it from the tip of the feathers to the BOP. It really darkened up the shafts again. I was wondering if this is a good idea to help prevent any moisture from getting into the wood or if the original three coats is good for the life of the shaft?
I have refinished shafts in the past.Usually towards the point end the finish wears from target burn especially poly. I used some 0000 steel wool to buff the area and reapplied the finish. Only issue I could foresee is adding some weight to the refinished areas if there is still a lot of old finish still there. I am not that picky about that, I want the arrows protected.
I did not redip, I used a foam brush to apply the finish.
Thanks, Thomas! I appreciate you're insights.
I use stained Watco oil, i find that it holds up to target wear as good as anything. When things start looking a little bare after months of use and thousands of shots, a simple wipe down brings them right back.
Thanks, pavan!
I have steel wooled them and dipped them in Parks floor finish with good results. Seals those dings and doesn't darken them either. It is clear as glass and pretty darn tough too.
Can't hurt. Good idea to keep up with the protection. Steel wool and reapply.
Deno
I will do the wipe on poly when I get target burn . Works great .
I soak all wood shafts in watco for several days before finishing the arrow, even when I'm cap dipping it after drying. On an older arrow, just wipe some more over the top of the old. Whatever you use don't over think it. If it doesn't seem sealed rub on some more.
Yepper, steel wool and minwax works for me!
I'v totally stopped and refinished a bunch of vintage wood arrows. I just use a "graffiti" striper, lightly sand, seal, crest/paint, fletch, and go .. they have come out nice.