re: What is your go-to Finish

Most of my projects are rather small and I use a variety of finishes depending on whether the item will be used and handled a lot or just for display.

One finish that I like for the former is oil based polyurethane, but with a little twist. I usually use 3 coats, sanding between and then sanding with say 600 grit on the topcoat followed by auto rubbing compound to make it silky smooth and slightly more glossy. It is wonderful to the touch and looks amazing. This is approximately what it looks like.