It had some kind of shellac and stain but it will shine. This one is really going to come alive. The only marks are rack numbers stamped in the butt. Just need the metal and a hand guard set. Now my M1icon Garand can match my M1 Carbine that matches my semi-m14. All have Sunday dresses now. Need to talk to Ironwood designs in San Jose to make a birch set for my AR.