Two part Varnish or traditional?

[Sundownsailing]

I have applied gallons of varnish using traditional methods and now I am faced with a recommendation for a two-part varnish system. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

[billyruffn]

I've used two part "varnishes" on cabin soles with good luck. It stands up well to foot traffic, abrasion, etc. I use traditional varnish in all other areas of the boat.

Where are you considering using the 2 part product?

[mitiempo]

Two part varnishes are tougher as posted. Good for higher wear areas. They cannot be used over traditional varnish. Traditional over two part does work.

[Tim R.]

A lot of the two-part finishes dry quickly and also allow for wet on wet re-coating which makes the job much faster. They also cure to a very durable finish.

In the past I have used Bristol Finish, Honey Teak and another I cannot remember the name. I like the Bristol the best.

[kev1951]

How do you keep bubbles from forming on the rails when using the honey teak Sshould i keep the componets of the honey teak in the fridge???

[turbulicity]

My impression is that the two part varnishes don't stand up to the UV any better than the quality traditional varnishes. When the time comes to redo, much harder to get the two parter off. So, I will stick with epifanes for outside brightwork. Two part would be good for cabin sole, table top and such.

[sanjuanman]

We are about to undertake a major overhaul of our bright work... if we were to use a 2 parter on the heavy-use areas and traditional on the rest... any opinions\experience on the difference in color... or is it pretty darn close?

[Spyder]

No, it's not close at all. Traditional varnish produces a cats-eye beauty that seems to glow. The two part finishes are relatively flat, but are tougher. I use 2 part on areas I can't see while sailing, but varnish in the cockpit.
Cheers,
Dick

[rbrasi]

What would you use on a tiller? Two different types of wood....

[mitiempo]

I would use traditional varnish on a tiller - I prefer Epifanes. When not sailing the tiller should be covered. That way it will last years.