[Cronus]

I went to a militaria show in Toronto yesterday and bought everything other than what I went there for. I picked up an inexpensive side-by-side double barrel percussion pistol that I tried to walk away from but it kept calling out to me. The damned thing knew my name...it was spooky. Anyhow, I want to oil the stock (walnut?) and I'm looking for some advice on what's best to use.

On a secondary note, I have limited information on the maker who was W. Thmpson & Co., London. Does anyone have some info re them.


Thanks, Doug

[madcratebuilder]

I like real tung oil. Many products are sold as 'tung oil finish' they well have varnish in them. Use 100% tung oil, three to five coats give a very nice finish that is not glossy. You can give additional coats and buff between coats to achieve more gloss if you prefer. Nice thing about tung oil is it well touch up minor scratches with just a touch of oil.

[Gambit88]

I agree with the tung oil, but I would also try linseed oil. I used walnut dutch oil as a finish on my navy, but I wouldnt know how it would react to an already finished product.

Gambit

[Gambit88]

I agree with the tung oil, but I would also try linseed oil. I used walnut dutch oil as a finish on my navy, but I wouldnt know how it would react to an already finished product.

Gambit

[Cronus]

Thanks for the input. I've used tung oil a lot when refinishing antique chests and corner cupboards. I've never had occasion to apply anything to these old gun stocks and appreciate your comments.

Thanks, Doug

[Ginormous]

I second Gambit88 and Madcratebuilder on tung oil finishes. I stripped both of my Uberti's grips from the unsightly heavy varnish that arrives from the factory. I applied tung oil over the course of several days, sanding with fine steel wool in between coats, and ended up with a great smooth finish. Feels good in the hand, unlike the original, which felt like grabbing a squirming eel after several rounds.

Here they are shortly after they were refinished:

http://i701.photobucket.com/albums/ww19/Ginormous_pics/DSCF1002.jpg

[BlackNet]

Cronus, is this a howdah by chance?

http://wetlands.simplyaquatics.com/d/29755-1/IMG_7324.JPG

what calibers are they and can you post photo's of them??

[madcratebuilder]

That's some interesting carving on that Howdah. I've got the 20x20, A lot of loading for two shots, but very impressive when you do touch them off.

[BlackNet]

thanks, if this is a howdah then it should be most impressive when we see photo's of it!

http://wetlands.simplyaquatics.com/d/29759-1/IMG_7330.JPG

[Ginormous]

I have really, really, really been trying to put these things out of my mind. Now they're back in the forefront, and my suffering begins again.

I want one.
No I don't.
Yes I do.
NO, I don't.
YES, I DO!

It's a vicious circle I find myself . . . again.

[Cronus]

Blacknet

re Howdah i.d...I don't know. I've attached three pictures of the Thompson
2-barrel I bought Saturday. It's a foot long. It sounds like you have the same problem I have with a pistol I picked up some time ago and have yet to I.D. See the last two pix. It's 15" long .

Doug

[madcratebuilder]

That is a nice old howdah you scored. Beautiful silver work.