Like many of those who went to the Expo I bought some barrel specials. If I wanted to change the rod from that raw graphite look to having a shiny coat for the entire rod, what product(s) would you recommend using. And is there any drawback to applying after finishing a rod or before finishing?

I was actually thinking about using my 2 part eurethane I clear coat my baits with to do this but would really rather not 'experiment' on a new blank.

Permagloss

PG will work but this is something you should practicve with before you try using it. DON"T STOP. When coating, you make one complete swipe from tip to butt and never slow down,never speed up and never stop and then continue. You will see the rings left behind. Consolation is that the next coat or two will cover up your mistake,,,,,or start another one

You can spray a polyurethane coat on,but this may nick when bumped against. I use Klear Koat--BEFORE wrapping the guides.

PG is a harder coat and works great--just has a harder learning curve.

Randy