Doug recommends taking off the Altoid tin's painted finish then covering the exposed metal with a clear coat finish. If I read his comments correctly, the idea is to have a polished surface for signaling. I'm questioning whether or not this is really practical or necessary?<br><br>1. The contents include replective aluminum tape on the bottom for signaling.<br><br>2. Is the polished tin surface effective in reflecting light? It would seem to me that it would disburse the rays and produce a dull or diffused beam.<br><br>3. Is it another case of redundancy in case the aluminum tape is marred and unusable?<br><br>If it is practical, then it's worth the extra time and effort. If not, then why not just use the Altoids tin as is. The original finish is likely to be more durable and protective than my secondary finishing efforts.