>>275085I prefer linseed oil to all other finishes because it is easy, looks old school, easier to touch up when the inevitable scratches and dings happen. Any varnish, poly or other coating are a a lot more trouble than they are worth. With linseed oil you just rub a coat on every time you feel like it, it takes just a few minutes. Tru oil, for gunstocks is a polymerized linseed oil that gives a quicker build.
Whatever you use, oil, wax, varnish, poly or paint, wood will always come into equalibrium with the ambient airs moisture content over time. The only way to keep wood 12 to 15 percent moisture in a very humid local is with a hot box.
This is not at all required for a great shooting bow, but only if you are anal about getting avery last drop of performance out of a given piece of wood.