Looking to resurface an old work table. What finish/coating to use?

[edgarbc1]

for a nicer finish, you might want to see if your friends/
acquantences has a sprayer which can apply a very consistent coat
of poly on the table top.

my own experience, is that I hand poly'ied some oak doors and
the finish is not as nice as sprayed on poly oak doors and oak steps
done by a contractor previously.

maybe rent a sprayer from a local rental shop as an alternative...
not as cheap as $50 total but check it out..