how to refinish a gun stock

3 min read 05-02-2025

Refinishing a gun stock can dramatically improve its appearance and feel, restoring a classic firearm or giving a well-loved piece a new lease on life. This process requires patience and attention to detail, but the results are well worth the effort. This guide will walk you through each step, ensuring a professional-looking finish.

Preparing Your Gun Stock for Refinishing

Before you begin, safety is paramount. Always ensure the firearm is unloaded and that you're working in a well-ventilated area. Protect your workspace with drop cloths or newspapers.

1. Disassembly and Cleaning

The first step is to completely disassemble the stock from the firearm. Consult your firearm's manual for specific instructions. Once disassembled, thoroughly clean the stock. Use a degreaser to remove any oils, dirt, or grime. A stiff brush can help remove stubborn dirt from checkering. After cleaning, allow the stock to dry completely.

2. Assessing the Damage

Carefully inspect the stock for damage. Note any deep scratches, gouges, or cracks. Minor scratches can often be sanded out. However, significant damage may require more extensive repairs, possibly involving wood filler or epoxy.

3. Stripping the Old Finish

The existing finish needs to be removed completely. There are several methods for doing this:

Chemical Strippers: These are effective but can be harsh and require careful handling. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions. Wear appropriate safety gear, including gloves, eye protection, and a respirator.
Sanding: This is a more time-consuming method but gentler on the wood. Start with coarser grit sandpaper (around 80-grit) and gradually progress to finer grits (up to 320-grit). Use a sanding block to ensure even sanding and avoid creating uneven surfaces.

Important Note: Regardless of your chosen method, you must remove all traces of the old finish. Any remaining residue will interfere with the new finish's adhesion.

Repairing and Preparing the Wood

After stripping the old finish, you might need to repair any damage to the wood.

1. Filling Imperfections

Use a high-quality wood filler to repair any gouges or cracks. Allow the filler to dry completely and sand it smooth, matching the surrounding wood grain.

2. Sanding for a Smooth Surface

Once repairs are complete, sand the entire stock thoroughly. Start with coarser grits and gradually work your way up to finer grits. A smooth surface is crucial for a flawless finish. Use a random orbital sander for larger areas and hand-sanding for intricate details and checkering. Pay close attention to the edges and corners.

3. Cleaning After Sanding

After sanding, use a tack cloth to remove any dust or debris. This will ensure the new finish adheres properly.

Applying the New Finish

Choosing the right finish depends on your preferences and the type of wood. Popular options include:

Oil Finishes: These offer a natural look and feel, enhancing the wood grain. Linseed oil and tung oil are common choices. Multiple coats are required, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
Varnish: Provides a more durable and protective finish but can mask the wood grain somewhat. Apply several thin coats, allowing each to dry before applying the next. Sand lightly between coats with very fine grit sandpaper to achieve a smooth surface.
Polyurethane: Offers excellent durability and water resistance. Available in various sheens, from satin to gloss. Similar to varnish, apply thin coats and sand lightly between coats.

Applying the Finish:

Whether you choose oil, varnish, or polyurethane, apply thin, even coats using a soft cloth or brush. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next. The number of coats depends on your desired level of protection and the type of finish used.

Finishing Touches:

Checkering: If your stock has checkering, pay extra attention to this area during sanding and finishing. Use a smaller brush or cloth to apply the finish in the checkering.
Final Sanding & Buffing: Once the final coat is dry, lightly sand with very fine sandpaper (600-grit or higher) to remove any imperfections. Follow this with a buffing compound to achieve a smooth, polished finish.

Reassembly and Enjoyment

Once the finish is completely dry, reassemble the stock onto the firearm, following your firearm’s instructions. Admire your beautifully refinished gun stock! Regular oiling or care, depending on your chosen finish, will keep your stock looking its best for years to come. Remember that this is a process requiring time and care, so be patient and enjoy the process of bringing your firearm back to its former glory.