[psmithem]

I am looking for a finish for my outdoor wood furniture.
I want it clear, but with a bit of surface, perhaps semi-gloss.
I have used Helmsmans but I want better.
Any suggestions?

 

[Fred Hargis]

Yep. Either a true marine spar varnish (that's not Helmsman) like Epifanes from your local marina or Jamestown Marine. Cheaper, and very good, would be untinted paint. This would be the oil base they use for the darker colors, normally #4. You may have to check whatever brand you buy, but it should dry clear, looking very much like varnish. Here's a link to the thread where I first read about it. The paint may not be as robust as the Epifanes, but it will be a lot cheaper.

 

[Steve Neul]

The Epifanes is the best spar but I've used a Cabot marine spar sold at Lowes that is pretty good and it's not as pricy.

 

[DIY]

I just finished a couple of chainsaw carvings with Target Coatings EM9300 Polycarbonate Urethane and I was really impressed. I sprayed it on and it was incredibly forgiving. It dries fast, left an apparent durable and flexible coating, and best of all - is water based. Can't speak highly enough of it...