I'm new to crankbaits. Just picked up a couple of Mann's - 1's shallow runners. I read a few reviews online, which were all favorable. The only knock they got was the finish is not durable, as in the paint would chip or flake in a short period of time. One guy claimed his lost an eye.

Should I apply some sort of clear protective finish before using them or just let 'em rip ?  I've read several articles that stated "beat up" looking baits can be more productive than shiny new ones.

Any suggestions ?

you can put a light coat of devcon 2-ton epoxy and that should help but i don't put any extra on i don't think the paint will matter that much most of the time on a crankbait

If you want a good thin clearcoat try Dick Nites fisherman's lure coat. I tell ya, I've got some really beat up trap's that I've thought about clearcoating them just as they are. Fish seem to really like the beat up cranks better some times....! lol