Armory Sponsor
Posted: 11/8/2008 5:08:05 PM EDT
|
Hey guys,
Picked up a 03a4 with a nice Keystone scant stock on it that is in real nice shape but has some "Naked" spots that I would like to but some kind of oil on. Is the correct stuff tung oil or BLO for a mil stock? I am not going to refinish the stock at all just simply add a little oif finish to it for protection. Suggestions? Turk |
|
Boiled linseed oil is the correct finish for the 03A3 and related models.
Warm oil is better or cut it with 50% mineral spirits and use only your finger tips to rub in very small amounts over a week or two, thoroughly rubbing in with your fingers and palms. You'll learn to love the smell. Dutch |
|
In production stock finishing in arsenals they were more often immersed and drip dried.
But yes, your fingers and palms are used. The USGI soldier's method going back long before 1900 was to rub into the wood with the palm of the hand forcefully to create heat for penetration. Several coats, each using a very small amount on your fingertips is the normal protocol. Don't glob on a bunch all at once. Make sure to oil under the buttplate and in the bedding. Use caution in desposing of any rags with linseed oil. They can combust (burn) all by themselves. Dispose of any rags in a covered steel trash can or outside the garage or house. Don't leave them inside. The physics can be explained by "spontaineous combustion". The common method of mixing BLO and mineral spirits is to use a small glass jar. A couple SPOONS of BLO and an equal amount of mineral spirits (odorless is preferred). Screw on the jar lid and agitate somewhat to mix it. It won't stay mixed so don't mix up more than this tiny amount. You won't use more than that anyway. Its a very simple and historical little ritual, rubbing the stock by hand. I'm craving the smell of linseed oil just from writing all this:). Dutch |
Armory Sponsor