I used several coats of Testors Model Master semi gloss clear lacquer on my Eddie shooter rod heads but that was over enamel paint. It might be ok over acrylic also as it dries very quickly. To attach the shooter rod i've been using 24 hour Araldite 2 part resin which needs to set for about 48 hours to achieve full strength. Not sure if you guys can get that product over there but i'm sure there would be an equivalent. I've had the shooter rod on my Maiden for months now with absolutely no issues. I would also Araldite an extra barrel spring washer onto the back of the head, saves the spring grinding away at the resin over time. These look very cool!!

Excellent job!! and for the amount of time involved in constructing, molding and detail painting (which i might add you've done a top job on) that's a great price too!!