I am a beginner getting ready to install 3 1/4" White Oak (900 sq. ft. w/ an open staircase) and finish using Bona Drifast stain and 3 coats of Traffic Satin. I have read all of the directions and with the information from this GREAT forum, I believe I can pull it off. I am using the Pacific roller for the floor just like the Youtube Traffic video but just wondering if I should use Traffic for the white oak handrail or would an oil based product be better for a handrail? Also, what is the best way to apply Traffic to stairs? I was just considering a quality paintbrush. Thanks for any help.

If you want the handrails to match the floors, use the same finish products. Switching to solvent based will change the color and look. I recommend pre-finishing stair treads prior to installation. I use a foam paint pad, like Padco or Sureline. A quality brush would also work. Another way is to spray with an airless. Only for the experienced.