I'm getting ready to build on a rodgeeks xc735, natural color. I choose the natural, no finish for the matt black look, because I'm doing a blackout themed build. Now that I have in hand, I'm starting to think I should consider a clear finish for protection. What's the general consensus for building on a natural finish regarding the need for protection?

Hi
Paint provides little, if any, protection for a blank.
All my personal (fly) rods are raw carbon finish. i.e. no finish at all. I put a coat of good auto wax (with a high carnauba content) to give it a "soft glow".

If you are going to use Permagloss to coat the whole blank - better do it out of doors and wear a respirator - not just a dust mask - if you value your, and your families, lungs and brain matter.
Coating small stuff like thread wraps can be done under an exhaust fan in the kitchen - not near flames though.
Regards,
Herb

No need for protection. It's all about cosmetics.

Leave it alone . The below is directly from the RG site :


" Our standard finish is a matte clear coat that we call Natural. This provides moisture and UV protection while showing the original look of the carbon fiber."




The finishes contain ultraviolet light inhibitors and flex additives, so you can be confident that these attractive and durable finishes will look good and protect the blank for years. We also have a clear gloss coat option at no charge. We will paint a blank with any one of our custom colors for $15 per blank. We can apply different colors to upper and lower sections of the blank to create a two tone look for $20 per blank.