There is clearly a trend in the firearms market towards composite stocks and away from natural wood, beginning with black Glock polymer frames, followed by other colors like sand and OD green. Then came the evolution of camo finishes and then alternate surface coating materials such as Cerakote that add textures and patterns in addition to special color. Anodizing metal with electric colors is yet another related development to pimp out your gun’s cosmetics.

In the traditional category, wood stocks often feature checkering to help with the grip, to go along with the finely crafted metal engraving, most of which is produced thru software-driven automation but still of great value and appreciation.

So, looking at wood care, the U.S. market has made walnut the obvious choice whereas birch and beech can be found overseas. Additionally, the finishes often look different in Europe. For American rifle and shotgun makers, most finishes feature a relatively moderate gloss, while in Europe, a dull finish or even an accentuated gloss can be found, along with some even more ornate metal details. To each his own.

To start with the basics of wood gun stock care, especially if you are looking at antique if not WWII-era rifles or older, to counter the natural tendency of drying wood, apply wood stock oil. Tetra Gun offers what the oil market calls Superb Grade Linseed oil. That is the best. The second choice is Tung Oil, but I found that to not be quite as good. There are also those traditionalists who justify a wax finish which is not as attractive but it will seal in the natural oils of the wood while protecting it from the environment. If you didn’t know, water is not your friend.

In production, gun stocks are sanded down and then stained, followed by a lacquer or varnish. The Tetra Gun Stock Finishing kit provides the two treatments, sandpapers and step-by-step instructions to do a good job for those who want to tackle a DYI refinish. It could be a fun project, but wear gloves and a little patience.

After that, taking care of your firearms overall is important. Wipe down your guns after action, especially when in the outdoors. Follow that up with dry storage in a humidity-free safe or other space. You may want to invest in a portable dehumidifier or buy anti-corrosion vapor material to pack the guns away with.

Shotguns and Rifles and even Handguns made with wood stocks or grips will create similar care scenarios, but I think the natural beauty of wood is worth it. I appreciate polymer and black finish metal too but finished wood blends in nicely with the great outdoors best. It just feels right.

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