Tru-Oil is a popular choice for finishing gun stocks, prized for its durability, ease of application, and the beautiful, deep luster it imparts. This guide will cover everything you need to know about using Tru-Oil, from preparation to final polishing, ensuring a professional-looking finish on your firearm's stock.
Understanding Tru-Oil: Benefits and Considerations
Tru-Oil gun stock finish is a penetrating oil finish, meaning it soaks into the wood rather than sitting on top like a varnish or lacquer. This provides several key advantages:
- Durability: Tru-Oil creates a tough, protective layer that resists scratches and dings, protecting your stock from the wear and tear of regular use.
- Water Resistance: The finish helps repel moisture, preventing warping and damage from humidity.
- Enhanced Wood Grain: Tru-Oil enhances the natural beauty of the wood grain, bringing out its richness and depth.
- Easy Application: Unlike some finishes, Tru-Oil is relatively simple to apply, even for beginners.
- Repairability: Scratches and minor damage can be easily repaired with additional coats of Tru-Oil.
However, there are also a few points to consider:
- Drying Time: Tru-Oil requires multiple thin coats, each needing sufficient drying time before the next application. This can extend the finishing process.
- Build Time: Achieving a durable finish requires patience and building up several layers.
- Sensitivity to UV Light: While durable, Tru-Oil can be susceptible to UV damage over prolonged sun exposure. Consider using a UV protectant for outdoor use.
Preparing the Gun Stock for Tru-Oil
Proper preparation is crucial for a successful Tru-Oil finish. This involves:
1. Cleaning and Sanding:
- Thorough Cleaning: Remove all dirt, grease, and old finish from the stock using a suitable solvent (mineral spirits are commonly used).
- Sanding: Sand the stock with progressively finer grits of sandpaper (e.g., 120, 180, 220, 320 grit) to create a smooth surface. Pay close attention to any imperfections. Always sand in the direction of the wood grain.
2. Raising the Grain:
After sanding, apply a damp cloth to the wood and allow it to dry. This will raise the grain, revealing any remaining imperfections. Sand lightly with fine-grit sandpaper (320-400 grit) to smooth the raised grain.
3. Final Cleaning:
Remove all dust particles from the stock using a tack cloth or compressed air. A clean surface is essential for proper adhesion of the Tru-Oil.
Applying Tru-Oil: A Step-by-Step Guide
Applying thin coats is critical for preventing runs and ensuring proper penetration.
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First Coat: Apply a thin, even coat of Tru-Oil using a lint-free cloth or a soft brush. Work the oil into the wood, ensuring complete coverage. Allow to dry for at least 24 hours.
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Subsequent Coats: Apply additional thin coats, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Drying time will depend on temperature and humidity; generally, 24 hours is sufficient. You'll likely need 6-8 coats for a robust finish.
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Wet Sanding (Optional): Between coats 4-6, you may choose to wet sand with very fine grit sandpaper (600 grit or higher). This will smooth any imperfections before applying further coats. Always rinse and dry thoroughly before applying the next coat of Tru-Oil.
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Final Polishing: Once the final coat is dry (allow at least 24-48 hours), you can polish the finish to a high gloss using a very fine polishing compound and a soft cloth.
Maintaining Your Tru-Oil Finish
While Tru-Oil is durable, proper care will extend its lifespan. Regularly clean your gun stock with a soft cloth, and avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. For heavy use or outdoor storage, consider applying a UV protectant to prevent discoloration and damage from sunlight.
Conclusion
Tru-Oil gun stock finish is an excellent choice for gun owners seeking a durable, easy-to-apply, and aesthetically pleasing finish. By following these steps and taking your time, you can achieve a professional-looking result that will protect and enhance the beauty of your firearm's stock for years to come. Remember, patience and attention to detail are key to success.
