I made some arrows the other day, turned out well enough.  Here is my question, the only sealer I had on hand was Helmsman Spar Varnish.  Well,  they turned out ok, but I have no idea how long or how well it will last and was wondering if any arrow makers out there any opinions on this stuff.  First time I ever used this stuff, more out of necessity than anything.  I was surprised by how well it worked however.  Anythoughts?

Bob.

I have used spar varnish before, 2 coats I believe,  and it worked out well

I've used it on my first batch of wood arrows, even though it worked out well..... I switched over to Gasket Lacquer and never looked back! I like the fact my arrows are dry in a few seconds then on to fletching!


Bob, I wish I would of know that was you shooting next to me this past weekend, I was shooting the NewWood longbow, the short one....

Spar Urethane will work ok. The big problem with it that I had found was that it yellows and it doesn't hold up to targets very well.

I just use wipe on Poly or Tru-oil.

Hey Joe, I was going to talk to you ( once I figured out who you were ), but by then you were talking to Chris and I did not want to interupt.  

He makes a pretty quick bow eh!  Anyway, I look forward seeing you at a shoot some time.  If you go to Milton next weekend say hey to Rafeal for me.  I am going to Iowa to see the show at Waterloo.

Bob.

Spar Urethane is fine for arrows. Just give it an extra day or two to cure then buff it well with fine steel wool. Use Duco to fletch with and yo can wax the front 3/4 with a good paste wax.

I quit using spar urethane a few years ago because I didn't like how it yellowed with age. I switched over to Daly's ProFin and have been very happy with it.

I've used Hellmsman for a few years. it has worked well for me, I like the yellowing, except on a fancy painted shaft, I like the colors to stay true. Dalys is the way to go if you can find it local, cost a fortune to ship the stuff.

Eric