I've been producing some walking canes for friends and family, with Brazillian Cherry-Walnut laminate shafts, and handles made from Walnut crotch, highly figured Maple, Desert Ironwood, and even a piece of Gaboon Ebony I found in a box of wood that I inherited from a childhood neighbor who passed away in 2007.
For the first time, someone wants to pay me to make one, which I'm only doing to help fund our pending adoption from Ethiopia. Because it's for someone who's paying, I want to make sure the finish is durable, and will look good for as long as possible.
I've been using Tung oil, up to 9 coats, sanding between, and it's giving them a great glossy finish. I don't know, and then worry about how long the gloss will last, and how they will hold up to daily hand-contact and occasional outdoor exposure to the elements.
Any thoughts on the Tung oil, or advice on what I should be using?
Thanks so much,
Andrew