Buckle rash has always been an issue on my buddies guitars. I respect my guitars a bit more and always make sure buckles are covered by my shirt. However, my mom's 1973 Epiphone acoustic has some buckle rash. Curious what you guys do to prevent and repair buckle rash.

On my daily player acoustic I put a paint sample sticker the size of a sheet of paper on the back to protect it. They are free in the paint section at my walmart.

I was thinking maybe NuFinish or something for automotive paint scratches.

I don't bother repairing buckle rash. It's there, it's part of that instrument's history and character.

As far as preventing it? I don't tuck my shirts in and don't wear huge belt buckles, so it isn't an issue.

Never had an issue with buckle rash. I do know the old Gibsons had enough finish on them to polish out some deep scratches.

It’s a tool.  Scars add character.  I wouldn’t mess around with a refinish.

That.

My oldest bass doesn't have major buckle rash after a few decades of use, the nitro finish on the front is worn to the wood in a few spots (forearm, thumb resting on bridge pickup)
The back looks better than the front.

I keep my belt buckle one loop counter-clock-wise.
I'm right handed, so one loop to the left.
Been doing that for 40 some years, so I'm used to it.
I have some nice old Martin and Gibson guitars and respect them.

Loop a small hand towel folded over your belt buckle.  Good for drying hands, mopping up spilled beer,  quick wipe down of instrument, etc.

Bonus points if you get mistook for a Mason....