Hello
I am new here and am wondering a couple things.
I plan to buy the preturned pots and box call kits and was wondering how to finish them for a good protective finish.
Will probably have to do all the finish by hand or with a brush/rag because i dont have any power tools except the possible use of a drill press.
There are many different applications that you can put on a call. Depending on they type of finish your looking for such as dull or glossy should be your deciding factor. You can head to Wal-Mart and pick up some polyeurethane or find some more expensive finishes at a hardware store. Many different finishes out there and each callmaker has his own preference.
Most of the time when you apply the first coat, it will absorb into the wood so dont think that you have to load it up right then. Let that first coat dry and lightly sand any imperfections with a semi-fine sandpaper or steel wool. Clean it off and apply a second coat to it. You dont need an expensive brush to apply it either. I usually buy the cheap foam brushes, rip the plastic handle out of them and then cut them into smaller pieces less than 3/4".
I think you can do a search through this call making section and probably find a few topics on what kinds of finish coats that some of the call makers like on here and get a lot of good info from them.
Handcannon is correct, there are many different ways to Finnish your calls. I like the glossy, I use DEFT CLEAR WOOD FINNISH the brush on type. however i do not use a brush or sponge, I use a small air brush it works great gives a good even coat. you can also get it in a aerosol spary. some hunters don't like glossy for fear of the glare but your hand covers the call when in use. i also use deft sanding sealer, i use a 100 grit paper on the lathe then a 220 grit to finish it, with some hand sanding after first coat.
good luck, and show us you call when you Finnish.
gary
Handcannon & stone road both brought up GREAT points. I have used the poly from walmart but recently switched to TRU OIL but with any finish jus take your time and prepare it between coats. Lets see one when your done ! Jason