Classic Instrument Lacquer (M610-1406)

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!

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.

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

This product has great functionality and value for the price ,low smell with great clarity. While adding durability to any project it also dries quickly

Excellent product. I've used it for many years and will continue as long as it and I'm available.

I'm surprised at how perfect the results were, especially since I've never done finish work. I had some highly texturized finish checking on the back of the neck, between frets 2 and 8. It's an older Les Paul. Many small pieces of nitro were flaking off, and it felt obvious. I used an artist's brush, some tape, Meguiar's quick detailer for lubricant, and followed the sanding instructions on the can. While the repair is still dull because I haven't buffed it yet (see pics), the neck feels like a flawlessly smooth, factory 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.

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.