BLO or oiled wood

[Edward Horton]

Edward et al, I would be grateful if someone could either verify the following or demonstrate that it is a myth:

I once read (sorry, I've lost the reference) that the tung oil used by the Japanese on the T38 and T99 rifles was derived from the Tung oil tree (Aleurites fordii). It belongs to the Euphorbia Family (Euphorbiaceae) and the juice of euphorbia plants, commonly known in the garden as spurges, can cause allergic reactions.

And, so the mislaid source, some GIs exhibited allergic reactions after handling captured Japanese rifles. This story may have some element of truth. If true, it would explain why a merchant of a wood finish might want to cash in on the known name of Tung as a good wood finish, but avoid using the real stuff to avoid medical claims from allergic customers.

Thanks to anyone who can clarify!

Patrick

I charge $50.00 and hour for cutting and pasting, my bill come to $1.66

Tung oil is made from the pressed seed from the nut of the tung tree. Tung oil is considered a drying oil much as linseed, safflower, poppy and soybean oil. When applied, it provides a tough, highly water-resistant finish which does not darken noticeably with age as does linseed oil. This is not to say that it is a colorless finish; it still has a slight golden tint.
Tung oil is also sometimes called “China wood oil”. It has been used for hundreds if not thousands of years in China to seal decorative and marine wood as well as porous masonry.
As the source of tung oil is a nut, people with nut allergies often report adverse reactions to contact with (or even the odour of) tung oil. Reactions can be severe in some cases. Whilst tung oil has been used for many centuries as a finish for kitchen items such as wooden bowls and cutting boards, some individuals must avoid its use.

Tung oil - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Pure Tung Oil comes from cold pressing of the seeds or nuts of the Tung tree. Tung trees mainly grow in the mountainous regions of china away from industrialization and pollution. Climate, soil and air quality are essential for a high quality oil. Our 100% Pure Chinese Tung Oil or China wood oil is a all natural finish manufactured by pressing the tung nut, no petroleum distillates or other additives - just Pure Tung Oil. All Pure Tung Oils are not the same. Some low priced marketers will package South American Tung Oil (dark, greenish in color) and sell its as the higher quality Chinese Tung Oils. Chinese Pure Tung Oil is available in 3 grades, we only offer the best available, Grade 1 yellow. A better quality Pure Chinese Tung Oil will offer superior color, faster drying and a long term elastic finish. Elasticity is a important factor as the oil must continue to flex with the expansion and contraction of the substrate on which it is applied.

Pure Tung Oil Finish - Wood Finishing - All Natural Finish - China Wood Oil - Real Milk Paint ®