I've got a Ruger Bisley that I was just sanding on to remove a high spot in the grips that was giving me a blister. They are factory grips so nothing too special. Before I refinish them, I started wondering if wood grips are ever left in the raw on purpose? It's just a range gun so it will not get rained on or anything. Over extended periods of use, would sweat and oil from one's hands give the grips their own patina sort of like a heavily used wood-handle tool might get?
Also, for finishing them which is what I'm likely to do in the end after get back the responses I expect (ie it's not a very good idea), what is a finish that doesn't leave wood glossy? My hands sweat a lot here in Houston, and I don't like having glossy or laquer-type finishes on my grips. It probably sounds stupid, but I'd prefer just a oiled finish like on some of my old Mausers, M1917 Enfields, SKS, etc.
Also, for finishing them which is what I'm likely to do in the end after get back the responses I expect (ie it's not a very good idea), what is a finish that doesn't leave wood glossy? My hands sweat a lot here in Houston, and I don't like having glossy or laquer-type finishes on my grips. It probably sounds stupid, but I'd prefer just a oiled finish like on some of my old Mausers, M1917 Enfields, SKS, etc.