So I have a couple MHX crappie rods that are slate and dont have finish on them like the CRB one I have.

Would it be a smart idea to apply finish to the rod?

I like the look of the slate as it is, just wasnt sure if it was normal to apply finish to a rod like this.

If you are pleased with the look, leave well enough alone.

My personal bait casters are slate finish. Sometimes I think the very minor bumps and dings are more apparent, and most times think the bumps and dings are a well earned patina.

I like the look of it, just wasnt sure if it was a common practice to finish the rod. Ill leave it the way it is.

The matte slate color is the finish, if you like leave it! If you want more gloss use Permagloss, not rod finish epoxy. Some blanks come with no finish, NFC and Rainshadow eternity just to name two, and they hold up well despite the lack of finish. Finish is basically cosmetic and actually makes the rod heavier.
Norm

Finish or paint on a sanded finished blank make it less sensitive. The coating dampens the vibration that can be felt and as stated earlier makes it heavier. That is why Gary Loomis does not use any coatings on his blanks.

Ah ha..ok..makes sense. This is actually the first rod I have ever seen like this. All my store bought rods all have a sheen to them. Would love to get a Loomis blank, bit heavy on the wallet though.

Just stick with the MHX rod...it's fine on quality & price. My favorite rod to use for my fishing is an MHX.

For the money MHX blanks are an excellent buy.
Norm