Member That Collects 98K's

[rocky321]

I remember reading a members post that said he actually collects 98K's. If you read this can you tell me how you remove the shellac from the stock. And if following up with 50/50 BLO and Mineral Spirits is fine.

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[Johnny Peppers]

I have a few K98k's, but don't actively collect them. I have found lacquer thinner to be the best in removing finishes that have been applied over the original finish. The lacquer thinner is not aggressive, and will allow you to remove the coat of shellac without disturbing the original color of the stock. I use BLO/Turpentine mixed 50/50 for a finish. As someone mentioned the mix does not smell good, but as it dries the turpentine smell goes away and only the BLO smell remains for a brief period.

[rocky321]

I have a few K98k's, but don't actively collect them. I have found lacquer thinner to be the best in removing finishes that have been applied over the original finish. The lacquer thinner is not aggressive, and will allow you to remove the coat of shellac without disturbing the original color of the stock. I use BLO/Turpentine mixed 50/50 for a finish. As someone mentioned the mix does not smell good, but as it dries the turpentine smell goes away and only the BLO smell remains for a brief period.

So straight mineral spirits would work?

[jmoore]

The member that actually collects K98k's does seem to comment rather more on other weapons. Sorry, I just calls 'em as I see 'em. Even if it gets me in a bit of hot water...

That said, I don't think he needs to do much refinishing on his rifles!

[Aragorn243]

Someone that collects K98's probably isn't going to have to remove shellac from his rifle. The shellac is a pretty good indication that it's a Russian capture and thus a complete mixmaster that while super for shooting, isn't all that collectible.

I went through this process about 6 months ago. The purests will say leave the shellac on as it's a part of the rifle's history.

I however prefer the rifle to look the closest to it's original form and can't stand that Russian shellac.

I just scraped it off using the back side of a butter knife. The stuff just flakes off and doesn't require much if any pressure. Isn't as messy as turning it into paste by disolving it off. Just a light wipe down with mineral spirits should clean off the remainder. I just used BLO to finish it.

I don't like using a lot of chemicals on the laminate stocks, some have experienced delamination with some of the harsher removers out there.

[Harlan (Deceased)]

Rocky123,

I'm confused as usual. Do you have a Russian capture K98 you're working on now, or is the the same stock you've been working on?


Aragorn243,

I agree with your thoughts. I only have one K98 and it's an Russian Capture.
It's no collector, but it's in nice condition with most of the same numbered parts. (Different bolt of course)
I refinished the stock so it looked as it did before the Russians slobbered that red shellac all over everything.

I stripped mine though and then went back with BLO. (Yes, it's a sticky mess stripping, and it took a couple of applications)
I'll try your method if I ever do it again.

[Sarge]

I collect 98ks, to include RCs. I have around 70 - 2/3 are RCs. I too like the stocks to look the way they were made, not the ruskie rework look. I have a friend who cleans mine up for me when its necessary so I can not offer any advice on the subjekt.
I have culled thru the rifle I bought and have many that either do not have the X or the importer failed to mark them - also have some with both missing.
Yes, I wish ALL of mine were vet bring backs or the 50-60s imports that were not import marked and mostly matching, But most of what I have are nearly impossible to find in original condition.
For example I have all but the first of the Ermas' - S/27, 27 u. ax and the same for the Borgiswald S/243, 243 u. ar. I am missing only the /G date on both makers.
It is nearly impossible to find most of these rifles in original all matching condition and when you do find one it will cost you $1500 - $2500 - which I can not afford.
Sarge

[jmoore]

So what did the Germans use? I've seen late war rifles w/ NO finish on the wood. Shockingly bright light tan colour they are!