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pre-64 win stock finish

gottashoot
I have a model 63 that looks like the stock was refinished some time ago because it has very small sanding marks on the buttplate going with the grain of the wood. It actually looks pretty good but I was wondering what the original finish was on this rifle (1958). And if it would be worth redoing to get rid of sanding marks. Thanks
Mark
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Comments

5 comments

Date Votes
  • RCrosby
    I'm sure you'll get some excellent and very specific answers re: your 63. In general I would simply suggest that since this rifle might well fall into the "collectible" category, (especially if it hasn't been modified, drilled, etc.) you not mess with the stock or rifle finish unless you have been able to confirm that it isn't original in the first place. Over the years I've picked up many wonderful shooters for very little money that would have been well out of my price range if someone hadn't drilled and tapped, reblued, etc.
    Rob

    Rob
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  • BigBarn
    Original finish was a type of varnish, on top of Winchesters standard stock stain. So when you have a rifle that has been used quite a bit, you wind up with a stock that looks like it has linseed oil on it. And that is the best look to continue, if your rifle is original, and has not been refinished.
    If you absolutely must clean it up, the best method is a good rubbing of linseed oil, and make sure that it is "boiled" linseed oil, or it will never dry. Just a couple of very well rubbed in linseed, that you let cure for a couple days between coats, and you can make your stock look very original. That is all I would do to a rifle that you wanted to keep original, and protected as well.
    Good luck,

    BigBarn[:o)]

    "Respect the land, and it will respect you"
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  • Bert H.
    Hello gottashoot...

    It sounds like the damage has already been done to it, and as a result, it has taken a serious $$ drop in the collectors market. The original finish on the stock of a 1958 vintage Model 63 was simple varnish. Personally, I would not pay to have it refinished again.

    Bert H.

    Real Men use a SINGLE-SHOT!
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  • gottashoot
    Thanks for the replies. I got the rifle from my Grandfather and love how it shoots. The rifle is one I still use to squirrel hunt with so value is not my main concern. I just wanted to refinish the stock to look original and to keep out the elements. Bigbarn, when you say "boiled" linseed does it actually have to be boiled prior to use or is that what it is called. I like the look of handrubbed oil so i will probably try that method. Thanks again
    Mark
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  • BigBarn
    gottashoot;
    Boiled Linseed is the type of oil you buy. It will say "Boiled Linseed" on the label. As long as it has that designation, you can't go wrong. It is by far the best oil to use on a gun stock, and always produces that great hand rubbed look.
    Good luck, and if you need any other info on refinishing, just e-mail me, and I will be glad to help you out, any time.

    BigBarn[:o)]

    "Respect the land, and it will respect you"
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