Well to pass some time in lockdown I re-finished two of my MFR stocks. Pretty pleased with the results so far, I'll oil when I remember now 8)
The top one had a truoil finish, and whilst it looked th epart I didn't really like it. So stripped it back and finished with two different raw linseed oil mixtures.
The bottom one is my favourite, its really light for what it is and feels lovely in the shoulder. Originally had a English Walnut finish (I think), so took it back a bit and used the same Raw Linseed Mixtures.
I used Raw this time as I had never used it before and wanted to see the difference. To be honest, apart from taking longer I can get similar finishes with BLO mixtures. Still, I like the finish on these...
And yes, I know the butt pad is missing from one of them 8)
Look lovely, nice grain on the bottom 1 😍
Omg outstanding m8, Just outstanding.
:D
the bottom early mfr stock are my favourite.think the later ones were to bulky.fantastic job on them.realy brings out the grain.
KevG
Those early ones feel so much lighter in the shoulder as well.
Looking good and top job matey, bet your pleased with how they have turned out 8)
They look great Tim. Tell me how did you remove the butt pad without causing damage and also what did you use to remove the old varnish. I have one I would like to do the same with after seeing these. Thanks. Gudge
On the Subject of removing the Rubber Recoil Pad...
If you apply a little sideways pressure on the pad's surface, about 1/4 and 3/4 the length from the top..
You will see there is actually a small Cut in the Rubber Recoil Pad surface over the screws!!
It will take a #2 Phillips screwdriver to remove the screws......
Stuart
Exactly as Stuart describes - there are slits where a philips screwdrive will fit into...as long as you aren't too heavy handed (I really had to concentrate not to be) then there will be little to no sign of you undoing them.
Thanks for the advice on recoil pad removal, I had assumed they were glued on, this really helps.
What do folks use to remove the old varnish, is it just a general paint stripper like Nitromors, or something milder. All advice is welcome here as I do not want to damage the stock
Thanks again
Andy
Paramorse is better than the current Nitromors....unless you have some older stuff from the 70's 8)
I ordered a can from ebay of very strong stuff and a couple of applications and it worked....still needed a bit of scraping. Use a toothbrush or brass brush for the stippling/checkering (if you have any).
Once done, wash down well with white spirit and go over with the green scourers.
Thanks again Tim, this really helps, I will give it a go.
Andy
they look lovely Tim, did you just sand them back or use something else? fancy doing mine as it needs a little TLC