Finishing a new preproduction stock

[Mark W.]

I have a Finger groove type stock coming from Dupage Trading for my c1918 M1903 #779XXX And I would like to get a finish on it and the handgaurd (coming from eBay) that closely matches and original finish in look.

What are your suggestions?

I have a LOT of woodworking experiance so I'm experianced with most types of wood finish from Boiled Linseed to Super Glue.

Hoping the stock will be a Dark Walnut but I know I wil have to work with what shows up.

Information

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[Rick the Librarian]

If Johnny P. doesn't mind me stealing his picture from another forum, this is his photo of an original finish on an early M1903:

[Johnny Peppers]

Getting the right color on it is the first order, then getting a finish that is not too built up. I posted this shot of an original 1916 stock recently.

I have better luck with BLO/Turpentine mixed 50/50. It allows a lot more control over finish built up.

[Mark W.]

Those photos of an original finish will be invaluable in my being able to come to a close match.

Looks like I added a p to my reproduction stock in the title LOL.

[Chuckindenver]

finishing, and getting the color right is the easy part..getting it to fit right, and shoot good is another issue all in itself.

[Promo]

Oh dear, Johnny please post pictures of the complete rifle. Looks just fabulous

[Faulkner]

I recently finished a new unfinished black walnut stock for a M1 carbine. I used one coat of Chestnutridge Military Stock Stain and then a half dozen applications of boiled lindseed oil cut 50/50 with mineral spirits. Turned out very, very close to my original USGI carbine stocks.