I have read several post that have suggested sealing cork with tru oil.
Do you apply it the same as wood and does it make the cork or burl hard over time. Are there other ways to finish off your cork or burl

Some people use U40 Cork Seal

I leave mine natural...and have never used either of these so i won't comment on them.

Tru Oil is fantastic on Burl cork!! It really brings out the grain and makes it look great. I've been using it for years and have never encountered hardening. I just wipe it on with my finger. Number of cats will determine whether you get a matte or gloss finish

Mike (Southgate, MI)
If I don't want to, I don't have to and nobody can make me (except my wife) cuz I'm RETIRED!!

Both thanks for the quick help. Mike if you have both wood and cork do you glue them up together and apply to both at the same time.

thanks again

Alan, I do it all at once. I glue up and shape my grips as one piece, whether it's wood,EVA, cork. Usually when the rod is complete, I apply the Tru oil until I get the finish that I want.

Mike (Southgate, MI)
If I don't want to, I don't have to and nobody can make me (except my wife) cuz I'm RETIRED!!

Mike-

Is using Tru Oil safe for rods headed for salt water? I am unsure of that?

Jeff, I don't know as I'm pretty far from salt (Michigan) but I would think so. I know that it's very widely used and I haven't heard anything negative. If I'm not mistaken, Andy uses it, check with him

Mike (Southgate, MI)
If I don't want to, I don't have to and nobody can make me (except my wife) cuz I'm RETIRED!!

Jeffery,
Tru-oil works fine on saltwater rod handles. I build primarily light weight rods for use in the salt and that's what I use on the wood and cork. I like a glossy finish and usually put on 10-12 coats, but 2 coats are probably enough.
Stan

Tru-oil is commonly used on gunstocks and it's not only a good saltwater sealer for cork, but it also seals against grease and such in the bargain. The U40 is also very good, as is marine spar varnish (which has the advantage of being less expensive). We've also used rod varnish.

The number of coats is a mtter of personal preference. I've heard everything from 4 or six to twenty coats, which produce everything from a satin cork finish with the sealer just under the surface, to an almost plastic, glossy finish.

Uncle Russ

I have just fished a fly rod that I finished the grip (cork) and fighting butt (exotic cork) with tru Oil (4 coats I think it was) for a week solid in saltwater every day at the very top of Australia. The grip and butt still look like 'new'. cheers John

I used u40 on a grip of cork and burl. I live in very south west fla and fish salt water. It protects the cork well and seals well with three coats. It does darken the cork some what and thats a consideration. I also have done natural cork on some rods and they hold up well so far as long as you take the time to clean them after use.

Thanks to everyone for there input. I also live in southwest florida and was concerned that using tru oil might harden the burl or cork after time but it sounds as if I am ok. Has anyone used the stock sheen & Conditioner does it give it more shine. Billy what part of Florida Love to see someone elses work.

Thanks again to everyone. Alan