Gel topcoat

[Dave Bagwill]

I got a small can of Old Masters down at the local Miller's paints, just to try it out.

[Dan Pennington]

I've used Minwax Wipe-On Poly and Behlen's Master Gel for banjo necks and rims. Similar application to TruOil - my favorite for guitar necks. I have no idea if these all are chemically similar, but similar finish results. Half way from semi-gloss to gloss.

[Dave Bagwill]

I found out that a way to save money is to follow the directions below.
They really mark up the price on the wipe-on stuff, and all they really do is add mineral spirits!

Make your Own
■ One part gloss, oil-based polyurethane
varnish; one part mineral spirits
(paint thinner).
Variations
■ Higher percentage of polyurethane
varnish to achieve a faster build.
■ Higher percentage of mineral spirits
to achieve a longer working time and
better leveling.
■ Substitute any other oil-based varnish