We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance,
functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you
are agreeing to our privacy policy
10 Best Boat Rubbing Compound 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
Perfect-It 3M EX AC Rubbing Compound, 36061, Fast Cutting, High Performing, 1 gal (8.95 lb)
The Perfect-It 3M EX AC Rubbing Compound is a high-performing product designed to efficiently remove P1200 grade or finer scratches, making it ideal for professional use. It boasts a fine grit type and is made from aluminum oxide, which ensures a refined finish and reduces dusting. This compound is particularly effective on newer, more challenging clear coats, indicating its versatility and compatibility with various paint surfaces.
Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,361
Ease of Use
Finish Quality
Most important from
264 reviews
#2
Perfect-It Perfect-It EX AC Rubbing Compound, 36060, Fast Cutting, High Performing, 1 qt (32 fl oz)
The Perfect-It Perfect-It EX AC Rubbing Compound is a high-performing product designed to efficiently remove P1200 grade or finer scratches. Its abrasiveness level is fine, making it suitable for delicate tasks while ensuring thorough scratch removal. The compound is specially formulated to prevent sticking and residual films, aiding in a smoother application process and less clean-up.
Rating
8.2
Abrasiveness
Application Method
Compatibility
Most important from
2431 reviews
#3
3M Super Duty Rubbing Compound, 05954, 1 qt (32 fl oz/946 mL), Contains No Waxes or Silicones
The 3M Super Duty Rubbing Compound, 05954, stands out in the boat-rubbing-compound category thanks to its high cut rate, making it very effective in removing P1000 grade and finer scratches from automotive and marine paint, as well as gelcoat surfaces. Additionally, it excels at cutting through oxidation, helping to restore the finish of weathered paints and gelcoats with minimal effort, thanks to its long wet time and efficient performance. This makes it a good choice for those looking to maintain or restore their boat's appearance with professional-level results.
Rating
7.9
Abrasiveness
Ease of Use
Finish Quality
Most important from
2264 reviews
Top 10 Best Boat Rubbing Compound 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
Perfect-It 3M EX AC Rubbing Compound, 36061, Fast Cutting, High Performing, 1 gal (8.95 lb)
Perfect-It 3M EX AC Rubbing Compound, 36061, Fast Cutting, High Performing, 1 gal (8.95 lb)
Abrasiveness: Fine
Compatibility: Various paint surfaces
Ease of Use: Smooth handling, prevents sticking
Finish Quality: Refined finish
Chosen by 1361 this week
Perfect-It Perfect-It EX AC Rubbing Compound, 36060, Fast Cutting, High Performing, 1 qt (32 fl oz)
Perfect-It Perfect-It EX AC Rubbing Compound, 36060, Fast Cutting, High Performing, 1 qt (32 fl oz)
Abrasiveness: Fine
Compatibility: Aluminum, Industrial, Packaging
Finish Quality: Refined
3M Super Duty Rubbing Compound, 05954, 1 qt (32 fl oz/946 mL), Contains No Waxes or Silicones
3M Super Duty Rubbing Compound, 05954, 1 qt (32 fl oz/946 mL), Contains No Waxes or Silicones
Abrasiveness: P1000 grade
Compatibility: Wood, automotive, marine paint, gelcoat
3M Perfect-It Gelcoat Heavy Cutting Compound, 1 Quart – Fast Cutting Marine Oxidation Remover for Boat & RV Gelcoat Surfaces
3M Perfect-It Gelcoat Heavy Cutting Compound, 1 Quart – Fast Cutting Marine Oxidation Remover for Boat & RV Gelcoat Surfaces
Abrasiveness: High
Application Method: Rotary buffer or by hand
Compatibility: Gelcoats, fiberglass, wood
Ease of Use: Easy
Finish Quality: Smooth, ready for polishing
Shurhold Buff Magic Compound - Ultimate Restoration for Oxidation & Rust | Buffing & Polishing Pads for Metal & Gelcoat, Pink - 10 lbs
Shurhold Buff Magic Compound - Ultimate Restoration for Oxidation & Rust | Buffing & Polishing Pads for Metal & Gelcoat, Pink - 10 lbs
Abrasiveness: Aluminum Oxide
Application Method: By hand or machine buffer
Compatibility: Aluminum, metal, fiberglass
Finish Quality: Glossy, polished surface
Related Products
Up to 20% off
3M 05974 Rubbing Compound - 1 Gallon
3M 05974 Rubbing Compound - 1 Gallon
Abrasiveness: Medium
Application Method: hand or machine
Compatibility: gel coats and painted surfaces
Ease of Use: user-friendly
Finish Quality: smooth, factory-like finish
Meguiar's M4965 Marine/RV Fiberglass Restoration System, 3-Piece Marine Fiberglass Repair Kit Featuring Oxidation Remover for Boat Care Plus Boat Polish and Wax
Meguiar's M4965 Marine/RV Fiberglass Restoration System, 3-Piece Marine Fiberglass Repair Kit Featuring Oxidation Remover for Boat Care Plus Boat Polish and Wax
Abrasiveness: moderate oxidation
Application Method: hand and machine
Compatibility: fiberglass on boats and RVs
Ease of Use: user-friendly
Finish Quality: professional finish
Meguiar’s Marine/RV One Step Compound, M6732, Removes Oxidation, Stains, Scratches, and Water Spots, Restores Color and Shine to Fiberglass Gel Coat Finishes, Christmas Gift Ideas for Car Dads, 32 Oz
Meguiar’s Marine/RV One Step Compound, M6732, Removes Oxidation, Stains, Scratches, and Water Spots, Restores Color and Shine to Fiberglass Gel Coat Finishes, Christmas Gift Ideas for Car Dads, 32 Oz
Abrasiveness: Medium
Application Method: Hand and machine
Compatibility: Fiberglass, gel coat surfaces
Ease of Use: User-friendly
Finish Quality: Quality finish
3M Super Duty Rubbing Compound, 05955, 1 gal (10.6 lb)
3M Super Duty Rubbing Compound, 05955, 1 gal (10.6 lb)
Abrasiveness: Medium
Application Method: By hand or machine
Compatibility: Aluminum
Finish Quality: Smooths out imperfections reliably
#10
Meguiar's M11032 Mirror Glaze Ultra Pro Speed Compound, Rubbing Compound for Cars Removes Up to 1,200 Grit Sanding Marks and Leaves a Swirl-Free, High-Gloss Finish, 32 Oz or 1 Gal
Meguiar's M11032 Mirror Glaze Ultra Pro Speed Compound, Rubbing Compound for Cars Removes Up to 1,200 Grit Sanding Marks and Leaves a Swirl-Free, High-Gloss Finish, 32 Oz or 1 Gal
Abrasiveness: Fine-grade compound with aluminum oxide
Application Method: Dual-action or rotary polisher
Compatibility: Painted surfaces
Ease of Use: Easy wipe-off, minimal dust or sling
Recommended lists
How do we rank products for you?
Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.
Buying Guide for the Best Boat Rubbing Compound
Choosing the right boat rubbing compound is essential for maintaining the appearance and longevity of your boat's surface. A rubbing compound helps to remove oxidation, stains, and minor scratches, restoring the shine and smoothness of the boat's gel coat or paint. To make an informed decision, you need to understand the key specifications and how they align with your specific needs.AbrasivenessAbrasiveness refers to the compound's ability to remove surface imperfections. It is important because it determines how effectively the compound can remove oxidation, stains, and scratches. Abrasiveness is usually categorized into heavy, medium, and fine. Heavy abrasives are suitable for severe oxidation and deep scratches but can leave the surface dull, requiring a follow-up with a finer compound. Medium abrasives are good for moderate oxidation and scratches, providing a balance between cutting power and finish. Fine abrasives are ideal for light oxidation and minor scratches, leaving a smooth and shiny finish. Choose the abrasiveness based on the condition of your boat's surface; for heavily oxidized or scratched surfaces, start with a heavier abrasive and finish with a finer one.
Application MethodThe application method refers to how the rubbing compound is applied to the boat's surface. This is important because it affects the ease of use and the results you can achieve. Rubbing compounds can be applied by hand or with a machine polisher. Hand application is suitable for small areas and touch-ups, providing more control but requiring more effort. Machine application, using a buffer or polisher, is ideal for larger areas, offering consistent results and saving time. Consider the size of the area you need to treat and your comfort level with using a machine when choosing the application method.
CompatibilityCompatibility refers to whether the rubbing compound is suitable for the material of your boat's surface. This is crucial because using the wrong compound can damage the surface. Most rubbing compounds are designed for gel coat or fiberglass surfaces, but some are also suitable for painted surfaces. Always check the product label to ensure it is compatible with your boat's material. If you have a painted boat, make sure the compound is safe for use on paint to avoid any potential damage.
Ease of UseEase of use refers to how simple and straightforward the rubbing compound is to apply and remove. This is important because a user-friendly product can save you time and effort. Some compounds are designed to be easy to spread and buff off, while others may require more elbow grease. Look for products that are labeled as easy to use or have positive reviews regarding their application and removal process. If you are new to using rubbing compounds, choosing an easy-to-use product can make the process more manageable and less frustrating.
Finish QualityFinish quality refers to the final appearance of the boat's surface after using the rubbing compound. This is important because it determines how shiny and smooth the surface will be. Some compounds are designed to leave a high-gloss finish, while others may require a follow-up with a polishing compound to achieve the desired shine. Consider what level of finish you want to achieve; if you are looking for a mirror-like shine, you may need to use a multi-step process with different compounds. For a quick touch-up, a single-step compound that provides a good finish may be sufficient.