I just made a custom checker board handle and fore grip with jigs I purchased from Mud Hole for my Ultra light rod build it turned out so good I want to protect it the best way I can so it stays looking good for years to come, so my question is what is the best way to do it? epoxy over the cork? rub it down with some kind of oil or just seal it with U-40 Cork sealer? I am thinking of epoxy,ideas will be appreciated!~Thanks' People~this is my first post.

cork is some what soft [ a little ] an epoxy gets real hard over time [ real hard ] it don't work well over time .use cork seal or one of the gun stock finishes many coat' s depends on the color you want , some people use a other coatings but look out for the epoxy
other people will time in on this one I think

William Sidney
AK

A single coat of U-40 is all you need.

A light scrub with mild detergent, rinse, dry and a re-coat when it starts looking dirty will keep it looking good for a long time.

W.V.A. Custom Rods
UK

Glenn,
If this grip is cork, and if the rod is used a lot, the grip will look used, because the basic material is reasonably soft.

To clean cork, I just use a tooth brush and simple green cleaner. It works well and the grip will look nice for a very long time.

It also depends on the quality of cork that you used on the grip. If the cork is of ultra high quality with few holes or lines in the cork, it will look better longer.

If you have holes that have been filled, then the fill will have to be renewed from time to time to maintain the appearance.

I have never been one to put anything over cork, since I appreciate the appearance and feel of natural cork. Also, since cork is dense but light, it does not readily accept any sort of finish that will stay on the cork for a long time.

Be safe

Tru oil is what I put on all of my cork work. I apply it with a paper towel at high speed on the lathe. Apply it and wipe off the excess.

I have used epoxy successfully (pretty heavy use for up to 6 years) on ramps and butts, but not on a whole grip. They have held up fine, but do turn amber in time. I think for what you want to do either tru oil or U40 will work. Tru oil with bring out the contrasts a little better while darkening it somewhat; U40 will retain original colors better. Try both on a couple rings that have the patterns of your grip and see what you like. And, as Roger said, grips can be cleaned. (I would still seal it)

I would like to personally thank all of you that replied to my post!..after reading them I have changed my mind and will use my U-40 as I have in the past! This is a great forum to be part of,Thanks again, Glenn.