Mohawk Classic Instrument Lacquer, Clear Gloss, M610-1406, 1 Quart

The Mohawk Classic Instrument Lacquer, Clear Gloss (M610-1406) is an outstanding product that delivers a superior finish at a more affordable price than other top-tier lacquers. It provides a deep, glossy shine that enhances the natural beauty of your guitar while offering exceptional protection. The nitrocellulose formula allows the wood to breathe, improving the instrument’s resonance and tonal qualities.What really stands out about this lacquer is the quality-to-price ratio. It offers professional-level performance—comparable or even better than much pricier finishes. Application is smooth, it dries quickly, and the resulting finish is hard and durable, making it perfect for both new builds and refinishing projects.Pros:Affordable compared to other premium lacquersSuperior quality finish with a clear, glossy shineQuick drying and easy to applyProvides a durable, protective coat that enhances the guitar's tonePerfect for refinishing or building guitars and instrumentsCons:Strong odor – Use in a well-ventilated area or with a respiratorFinal Verdict:If you're looking for a top-tier lacquer without the premium price tag, the Mohawk Classic Instrument Lacquer is the clear winner. It provides an amazing finish that rivals the best in the industry, and it’s a fantastic option for anyone serious about their guitar refinishing or building projects. Highly recommended!

Great product! Sprays beautifully, I will definitely use this again. And again. And again!

Best lacquer I’ve ever used. Works great with my cheap spray gun and some thinner, creating a gorgeous mirror gloss finish on my guitar. It took me a while to figure out sanding it so it was looking pretty rough at first, but this lacquer just keeps getting smoother and glossier with each coat.

works great. Use the proper brush and brush size to get a good finish.

I am not a professional painter, but with some good prep work, a garage, an ancient air compressor, and a Harbor Freight spray gun, I was able to obtain a better than factory finish with this product. I got 7 coats out of the one quart can: 3 coats per day for 2 days, and one last heavy final coat on the third day. I only did very minimal sanding between days to knock down any fuzz or debris. I did not apply the recommended E-Z Vinyl Sealer first, but I was spraying over top of gel stain, which has some inherent sealing properties. After letting the lacquer cure for about 3 weeks, I did spend considerable time wet sanding and polishing the finished guitar to really bring out the shine. As a general warning, if you use water for wet sanding, be very careful around any drilled holes. The holes will suck up the water, the wood will swell, and your beautiful new clear coat will crack around the holes. I learned this the hard way. I highly suggest dry sanding near any holes. Some recommend using mineral spirits instead of water. Also wear a quality respirator when spraying. This stuff is no joke.

Excellent product. Drying is very fast, so it can only be used with a spray gun (don't try using a brush).

Used this brand for years with the same if not better results than the higher priced brands. Its nearly crystal clear even after 8-10 coats and the flow out is excellent, I usually thin it about 60/40 for my gun. I have 4 or 5 instruments that I shot 10 plus years ago and that still look great no discoloration or loss of adhesion, just some minor chips which I worked hard to get, not the fault of the product. Protection is better than expected for a nitro finish, my favorite finish. I have also refinished a few furniture projects that are just as nice although you could probably get a furniture finish lacquer from Mohawk for a little less money.

Difficult to use. First of all you need the right weather, a day of low humidity is the best. Then you need a couple more items; like some retarder and reducer. One to thin without blushing, the other to slow the drying time and allow a smooth coat with minimal orange peal. You can add some tint to get a beautiful transparent layer. I ended up with a beautiful burgundy transparent finish. It also requires the right application tools, i.e. a good spray gun, booth, and compressor. Good to learn on an old guitar first till you have it down.