This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of refinishing a wood gun stock, from preparation to final finishing. Refinishing your gun stock can dramatically improve its appearance and protect the wood, extending its life and enhancing its value. Proper refinishing requires patience and attention to detail, but the results are well worth the effort. We'll cover everything you need to know to achieve a professional-looking finish on your prized firearm.
Assessing Your Gun Stock and Gathering Supplies
Before you begin, carefully assess the condition of your gun stock. Identify the type of wood (e.g., walnut, birch, etc.) as this will influence your choice of finishes. Note any significant damage such as cracks, chips, or deep gouges. These may require repair before refinishing.
What you'll need:
- Safety Glasses: Essential for protecting your eyes from dust and debris.
- Respirator: To prevent inhaling harmful dust and fumes from solvents and finishes.
- Gloves: Protect your hands from chemicals and solvents.
- Screwdrivers: To remove any metal parts from the stock.
- Sandpaper: Various grits (e.g., 80, 120, 180, 220, 320, 400) for smoothing the wood. Consider using sanding blocks for even pressure.
- Tack Cloth: Removes dust and debris between sanding stages.
- Wood Filler: For repairing minor cracks, chips, and gouges.
- Mineral Spirits or Denatured Alcohol: For cleaning the wood.
- Stain (Optional): Choose a stain that complements the wood type. Test it on a scrap piece of wood first.
- Wood Finish: Options include oil finishes (e.g., linseed oil, tung oil), polyurethane, varnish, or shellac. Research the pros and cons of each before choosing.
- Brushes or Rags: For applying stain and finish. Use lint-free cloths for oil finishes.
- Steel Wool (Fine Grade): For smoothing between coats of finish.
- Clean Rags: For wiping off excess finish.
Step-by-Step Refinishing Process
This process details the steps to refinishing your gun stock. Remember to work in a well-ventilated area and always follow the manufacturer's instructions for any products you use.
1. Disassembly and Cleaning
Carefully disassemble the gun stock, removing any metal parts such as the buttplate, trigger guard, or action screws. Clean the wood thoroughly using mineral spirits or denatured alcohol to remove any dirt, grease, or old finish. Let it dry completely.
2. Repairing Damage
Inspect the wood for damage. Use wood filler to repair any small cracks, chips, or gouges, allowing it to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions. Once dry, sand the filled areas smooth using progressively finer grits of sandpaper.
3. Sanding the Stock
Start with a coarser grit sandpaper (e.g., 80 grit) to remove any old finish and level the surface. Gradually move to finer grits (120, 180, 220, 320, and even 400 grit for a super-smooth finish), sanding in the direction of the wood grain. Use a tack cloth to remove dust between each sanding stage. Avoid excessive sanding, as this can thin the wood.
4. Applying Stain (Optional)
If you're using stain, apply it evenly with a brush or rag, following the manufacturer's instructions. Allow the stain to dry completely before proceeding to the next step. Remember to test your stain on a scrap piece of wood first.
5. Applying the Finish
Apply your chosen wood finish according to the manufacturer's instructions. For oil finishes, apply thin coats, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. For polyurethane or other film-forming finishes, follow the recommended number of coats and drying times. Sand lightly with fine steel wool between coats to smooth any imperfections.
6. Final Polishing
Once the final coat of finish is dry, you can polish the stock to a high shine using a polishing compound, if desired. Use a clean, soft cloth to buff the finish to a smooth, even sheen.
7. Reassembly
Once the finish is completely cured, carefully reassemble the gun stock, ensuring all screws and parts are properly tightened.
Choosing the Right Finish for Your Gun Stock
The choice of finish significantly impacts the final look and feel of your gun stock. Here's a comparison of common choices:
| Finish Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Oil (Linseed, Tung) | Penetrates wood, enhances grain, durable | Requires more coats, longer drying time |
| Polyurethane | Durable, water-resistant, easy to apply | Can look less natural, may yellow over time |
| Shellac | Easy to apply, builds quickly | Less durable than polyurethane |
| Varnish | Durable, protective | Can be difficult to apply evenly |
Case Study: Restoring a Damaged Walnut Stock
A client brought in a damaged walnut gun stock with significant scratches and a chipped cheek rest. We repaired the chip with wood filler, sanded the entire stock with various grits of sandpaper, applied a dark walnut stain, and finished with three coats of satin polyurethane. The final result was a dramatically improved stock, restoring its beauty and functionality.
Conclusion: Protecting Your Investment
Refinishing a wood gun stock is a rewarding project that enhances the appearance and longevity of your firearm. By carefully following these steps and choosing the right materials, you can achieve professional-looking results and protect your investment for years to come. Remember safety is paramount—always wear appropriate safety gear and work in a well-ventilated area.