I have now applied 3 coats of spray lacquer to a radio cabinet and have what appears to be a nice finish. I read about a step in the process to rub out a lacquer finsish and then wax. What is the purpose of this step if it already appears and feels smooth?

If it looks good the way it is, leave well enough alone. To rub out a finish is just a final step in taking out any imperfections. A wax after is to protect.

:If it looks good the way it is, leave well enough alone. To rub out a finish is just a final step in taking out any imperfections. A wax after is to protect.
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Hi I'm with Warren on this if it looks good leave it alone. I have had only a couple radios that didn't need rubbed out. If you have to rub one though, I get good results with 0000 steel wool and Lemon oil. You have to be very light handed and not rub to hard or you WILL get scratches. Then follow it up with a good furniture paste wax (Min-wax) for example. Best 2 U