Your curator is correct, wood does not "need" feeding, however, it does need protecting with some kind of finish. Raw, unprotected wood will deteriorate and looks awful. Even axe handles get some kind of finish. Soaking wood with raw linseed, or even boiled linseed oilicon or tung for that matter is not necessary, and certainly not desirable. Careful application of the same oils, however, will result in a decent looking finish that enhances the appearance of the wood and offers a degree of protection from the elements. Once this is achieved wax away till your heart is content for that extra level of ultimate protection. I doubt if even your curator would think of wax as the only finish needed for a stock. I would also be curious how well the wax would stand up to actual field use. It certainly works well for museum pieces.