[rayking49]

I personally have not had bad luck with poly and red oak. At least the cabinets I put them on have held up well. Like I said, this is only my e experience, limited though it might be.

The top was done with oil based wipe on poly, and the cabinet was water based poly over white stain. They've held up several years now.

 

[rayking49]

I can't remember, somewhere about 10-12. Wipe on poly is way thinner, so it takes many coats, but they dry quicker too. I like it because it gives a way smoother finish, IMO. I did it both ways on some of the coats. Poured it on the wood, then wiped it and I poured it on the rag and wiped it. Both ways worked good for me. It just takes several coats.