Epoxy creates a smooth finish more easily than varnish, and while heavy, a thick coat of epoxy can provide an "ablative" layer. You can scratch into the epoxy for a while before you start damaging the glass. This is sort of the theory behind gelcoat. The potential problem is really thick epoxy can be brittle and cause different problems.

I think enough epoxy to make a smooth surface for varnish is worthwhile. After that it is parasitic weight.

> I have been following the posts and recall some of George's posts
> regarding the relative strengths of more epoxy and actually followed
> his URL on the issue. When coating the first and second time and definitely
> the third time I was justiying the additional coats not so much in
> added strength but in an easier time sanding and a better look under
> paint. So... does the added weight really help build a better base
> for paint application or for that matter any more durable?