Krag Collectors Association Forum

What Fred said. If you have a beautiful walnut grain, flaunt it ... don't hide it!

Is it a Claro walnut?

I will do my best to bring out the stripes…. Also, he did get back with me again this morning — BR, the wood is European Walnut as you suspected.

Completed another round of stain today with focus just on the stock — added red. It’s getting close to matching. Perhaps one more round of red — or I may just leave it be, and opt for the new same wood handguard in May.

Go to a Muzzle loading supply catalogs, Dixie Gun works, Log Cabin shop etc and get some. I'm going to really blow the selling aquafortus. It will bring out the strips, then True Oil it. I have a beautifully striped 1891 Mauser, straight from the factory.

IMO - Don't put on any finish that can't be easily renewed or stripped with simple mineral spirits.

Search "French Polish" on the KCA.
Parashooter has written several times about this 'thinned shellac' technique. (It can be easily undone, if unsatisfactory).

I have suggested light French polish to emulate handling sheen when matching condition, NOT for finishing an entire military rifle. Raw linseed is the authentic overall finish for US rifles of the period.

Thanks Parashooter for explaining.