I want to give the stocks a nice drink

[imarangemaster]

I understand putting it (raw linseed oil) on a stock with original finish. If you have a stock with a BLO finish already, or a well glazed original finish, RLO won't sink in.

[sakorick]

The supply of Tung Oil in the US was non-existent during WWII. Supplies from China were stopped by the war and the US domestic production was wiped out by frost from 1934 to 1940. Tung oil therefor, was not used on any US rifles made during WWII. It is untrue that Raw Linseed oil will not penetrate wood previously treated with Boiled Linseed oil. BLO contains driers that speed up the drying process and had not been invented until after WWII. Depending on the type of wood, the driers used in BLO will possibly darken the wood with continuous use over years of application. If you are using BLO on your precious US or British Milsurps I urge you to stop as down the road this product will more than likely alter the color of your stocks. Raw Linseed Oil is cheaper than BLO and available at almost every hardware store in the USA and Brownells carries it also. Use just a few drops and rub into the wood using the palm of your hand until the wood starts to feel warm. Re-coat after 24 hours. Regards, Rick.

[jmoore]

Some good info in this thread from the rambunctous Edward Horton. (Primarily dealing with No.4 accuracy, but good linseed oil info, too.):

Getting the most accuracy from a No. 4 MK1*

[sakorick]

That is the best thread on the subject I've ever read. Edward Horton covers all the bases and is a must read as his summary also applies to US Military surplus firearms. I treat my stocks with Raw linseed oil every 6 months.....once/month seems a bit much. Thanks, jmoore for the terrific link. I wonder why Mr Horton was banned? Regards, Rick.

[painter777]

See the first page of the link provided by Jmoore,
Set up to submerge the stock in the oil bath,

Getting the most accuracy from a No. 4 MK1*

CH-P777

[jmoore]

Mr. Horton? Banned? Mostly because he didn't suffer fools. But managed to act like one half the time. i miss him!

[ww321q]

Who would have known that the same flax seed oil I take for cardiovascular health would also be good for my rifle stocks !!! LOL! JW