Bonakemi 'Mega' approx £60 for 5ltr

'Mega' was launched in 1997 and has become the world's best-selling water-borne finish.

Mega is a one-component Oxygen-crosslinking polyurethane water-borne varnish with a good proven track record in durability and wear-resistance.

11 years on and rumour has it that bona has finally adjusted the chemistry, only a rumour mind.

Personally i feel not the easiest varnish to work with, It levels fine when used with the roller method, but seems of late to have developed grain raise problems especially on softwoods such as pine and douglas fir, you can still get a good build and smooth finish, but needs lots of machine screening or palm sanding between every coat to smooth out the grain.

Matt - Silk - Gloss

The Matt is i'd say is about a 15% sheen The Silk about a 35% Sheen and the Gloss just 70% compared to the 95% bona claim. Still a great Lacquer. Proven lastabilty and quality. But prone to yellowing, some would say it gives warmth..

There's plenty of hot prospects readily biting at 'Mega's tail, but for now its still the worlds best seller.

Quality 8/10

Ease of use 6/10

Value 9/10