Does anyone else use Thompson's on cork. I use a light coal on my handles and have been very happy with the results. Would cork seal be better?

Jim

I have used it and was well pleased. It didn't turn the color after it dried and changed the feel only a bit. To be honest though, I rarely put anything on my cork anymore. I probably should.

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Try U40 Cork Seal. Varathane or Durathane would be better than Thompson's.

I personally don't use any thing on my cork. I like the old weathered look. I do clean my cork with soap and wather after fishing, just to get the junk off it

U-40 cork seal gets my vote here. Adds that 'extra' for a custom touch and feel. Also very functional in keeping the cork conditioned to resist dirt and grease. Can be sanded later if need be and reapplied.
I think it gives a pleasing texture and a bit of darkening most would like, but again it's a preference thing.

As for use of the varnishes varathane, or durathane...I don't know.
Anyone can describe the experience with these in specific? Seems these may eventually give a cracking or peeling from the cork.

The U-40 cork seal would not peel or crack. Ralph's got a great specialty product here for custom rodbuilders. For the small cost you can do a decent number of grips and be assured it's a product made for the purpose intended. Remember also to apply it properly without thinking it to be absorbed into the cork, cause it won't. Don't allow puddling. A light coating shoud do, and it dries quickly.

Rich
Richard's Rod & Reel

I'm with Rich and Steve on the U-40 cork Seal. Great stuff.

U-40 cork seal gets my vote. I have been very pleased with the results. Some people don't like the look but It only slightly darkens the color of the cork. There is an advantage not discussed as of yet. If you have pitted areas that were filled with cork dust and sanded, I have found that it helps to hold the filling intact longer using the treatment. If I am using pre formed grips, I apply the treatment first thing before much handling is done. I feel this holds the original shape with less abuse to the fillings while reaming etc.

Bruce Young
Landing Gear

Same here for the U-40 stuff. Been using it for over 10 years and have no reason to change. The rods I did 10 years ago still have nice looking cork grips. I've sanded some of the old ones and applied a new coat once or twice on some of the ones that have had a lot of hard use over 10 + years but thats all. Warren