Is there really any reason to seal cork grips? If so is u-40 cork seal the only product for this job?

Kenne

They do not NEED to be sealed, and most are not. Sealing with something like Cork Seal, brings out a little more of the character of the cork and makes it a little easier to keep clean.

I have done it both ways - sealed and not. However, I prefer using Tru-oil over the cork sealer. To me, it brings out the color of the cork much better. You can also add as many coats as you like and even get it thick enough that the cork will never be touched (similar to a gun stock - as that's what Tru-oil is)

Jon Hood

I've used U40 cork seal recently and I'm very happy with the results. It does help in cork maintenance by adding a protective layer, and it does not hinder the appearance of the cork - on the other hand it enhances the look in my opinion.

Been using cork seal for years and like it very much. Besides sealing the cork, it enhances the feel and makes the cok tougher. There is no down side for using it.

I agree with Norman, the U-40 Cork Seal will add some additional feel to the cork, as well as make it easier to clean up when fished with.

How many coats of the U-40 do you guys usually put on the cork? I clean my cork an the whole rod every winter, is that kinda the same concept?

Just one soaking coat, can turn if you want to, takes about 15-30 min to soak in and dry to the touch. A second coat does not further penetrate the cork.

Cork is not easily penetrated by anything, so don't waste your time with multiple coats to take advantage of the easy clean/enhances appearance effects. Multiple coats of tru oil will just make the surface harder, in my opinion. I used to use u 40 and liked it, but for some reason it tended to leak out of the bottle. Maybe I didn't tighten the cap, but it seems more sinister than that. I've gone to one coat of tru oil.

If I remember correctly, builders would recoat every so often(I could be completely wrong). But if this is the case, how often would that be?

this is your rod not mine so you set how often, How much you use it an the type of weather [ HOT, cold , rain ,snow , sunny ] your choice

William Sidney
AK

You are better with tru oil better durability

Bill - willierods.com

Miles, I have quite a few cork grips treated with tru oil and I've never reapplied oil to them. They don't seem to get gunky either; I've never cleaned them and they look fine, not absolutely new- looking, but not in need of anything.

Never tried tru oil but tempted to try it to see how it compares.