We finishevery bow with with coats of Gloss (for durability) then finish with coats of Satin Thunderbird for bows on our display rack. We know the Gloss will look better but the satin or flat is better for hunting,  

What finish does everyone prefer on thier bows?  Gloss, satin or flat?

I would never buy a bow that had gloss finish, even if I knew I would never use it for hunting. Satin or flat doesn't really matter to me, as long as it doesn't have any highlights that would reflect.

Satin first choice, flat second over gloss the way you do yours

I don't want any gloss here.  Satin is for me.

Satin. good compromise.

Satin

Satin 2nd choice gloss , you can always dull it to your liking with Scotch Brite.

I like Satin for a hunting bow.

A gloss bow can have spandex limb skins on it or something similar to blend in,cut the shine.

For a real beautiful showcase type bow.A quality hand rubbed gloss finish does look best IMO.

I tend to like the gloss. it shows the beauty of the wood and I've never had a problem with the glair while hunting

Flat for me as long as it's had several good coats on to fill all voids or any open little fischer's so to speak....I have heard that the flat will scuff easier but I treat my bows with respect and don't toss them around so flat is my first choice then the Satin....

QuoteOriginally posted by Keefer:
Flat for me as long as it's had several good coats on to fill all voids or any open little fischer's so to speak....I have heard that the flat will scuff easier but I treat my bows with respect and don't toss them around so flat is my first choice then the Satin....

Flat is a softer finish for sure Gloss is the toughest.  That is why we like to start with coats of Gloss for overall durability then top with the satin or flat depending on what the customer orders.


Thanks for the comments.

I will not buy a gloss bow.  They sure look nice and shot the quality of the work and wood the best.  Satin works fine for me hunting and still shows off the bow okay.

Flat for me.  Satin is nice, but I want the least reflective finish I can get. For hunting open country it can be an issue - I've seen it on partners bows from a long ways away.

Satin.

I would prefer a satin finish.

Satin

I prefer a satin or flat finish. You can really tell if a bowyer has a paint room when he uses gloss. Gloss will show all the dust particles under the finish.

Gloss riser and Satin limbs.

Anyone who doesn't like a high gloss bow is a Communist!!!
 

I finish all my selfbows with Tru-Oil which is high gloss but add a quick spray of satin poly over it to reduce the shine to a soft satin finish.