odies oil - original (Rating: 3)

Disclaimer, this was a free sample I received many months ago.

Odie's Oil is a mix of wax(es) and oil(s) that works like a friction polish but can also be applied to flat work. I don't know exactly what is in it and it has a very distinct smell that I find pleasing. The claim is a little bit will go a long way and initially I tried applying with a paper towel and was disappointed, not only does the towel absorb too much of the finish but the paper sticks and leaves little fuzzballs. After talking to Odie he recommended I apply with my fingers and I recommend that method to everyone else. Applied with the fingers a little bit does go a long way which it has in common with homemade wax & oil mixtures I've experimented with. Whatever is left on your hand can be rubbed in like lotion, there is no sticky or oily residue and the lack of solvents means it is safe. On most woods there isn't a significant difference between my own paste wax/linseed oil mixtures and Odie's with a few exceptions: Odie's doesn't darken the wood any appreciable amount and does develop more of a sheen. After testing on cherry which is prone to blotching, Odie's won hands down beating out oil/wax and oil/shellac. I've only tested it on projects that don't get a lot of handling so I can't really comment on durability but being an oil/wax common sense should guide you. Also being a wax/oil it likes heat and applying in cold weather can be a chore, the wax tends to congeal and the oil becomes very viscous meaning you'll have to rub vigorously if not warmed first.

Price is $12.70 + shipping for 2 oz. (or $28.40 + shipping for 9 oz.)