Thanks Rob. The thing I like about the oil finish is that it's easy to maintain, as well as apply. I can just put more on over the scratches if it bothers me.
With varnish, eventually it peels; or if you have a scratch, you have to sand well and reapply.
At least that's my thinking. Make sense?
Dant,
Sure, what works best for you makes the most sense!
Basic wipe on finish is very easy, and long lasting.
Peeling varnish is another issue...
It happens because the surface wasn't cleaned properly before application, moisture got under the surface, or because a "hard" varnish was applied over a "soft" varnish or paint.
In the boating world I can see how that could happen easily.
Beyond the constant threat of water everywhere, Teak oils and other finishing/protective oils might be applied, and then someone comes along and decides to varnish without proper surface prep...
In the housing arena, I see it often when a homeowner varnishes a front door, or a deck.
Generally their problems come from not getting the surface clean, then from varnishing only the parts "they can see" missing the top, bottom, and edges, and then from someone deciding to try a "new" varnish; perhaps a very hard polyurethane, not understanding they are applying it over a very soft spar varnish.
Learning curves are everywhere!
Rob
Never did to it much after that ... ruined the look ... grrrr!!! 
