I can understand not wanting to take the time to use CA if you stack em high etc or if you want to knock out pens in the fastest possible time. I have tried other finishes and none come close to CA in terms of lasting. The finish on pens that I made years ago is just as good today as when I made them.
Maybe my fingertips are desensitised but I can't feel any difference between a finish with CA and a sanding sealer finish which has been buffed so I much prefer a finish which not only highlights the wood, but keeps it looking like wood. I have seen pens made with a wax finish and the owner was proud that he hadn't needed to refurbish the finish, I don't think he realised how grubby the pen was with his sweat and body grease rubbed into it over the years.
Everyone who makes pens should try as many finishes as they can until they find one that suits them, if one finish cost more in time and/or money to apply then it is a simple equation, charge accordingly, you are the one who sets the price. If you want to sell on quality rather than bulk then again charge accordingly.
For me it is CA everytime, I guarantee the finish on my pens, I will refinish them if they wear, and may even refinish them if they were damaged, but that would depend how many pens that person has bought from me.
Peter
