Preserving a Stock

[MI2600]

I have an 1884 Trapdoor that is in excellent condition. But, the stock appears to be dry and feels "rough" if that's the proper term. I do NOT want to refinish it. I just want to preserve it from deterioration.
I scanned the archives and BLO seemed to be the consistent answer. I don't expect to have a glossy finish, but I believe it should be smoother.

Is BLO the answer? Or, are there other/better alternatives?

 

[1KPerDay]

BLO or any good wood oil will be what you need. Wood needs oil or it dries out, shrinks, and cracks.

BLO has driers in it. Raw linseed will work but will stay “wet” but that might be a good thing as the wood drinks up what it needs.

look at pure tung oil also.

me, I’d rub in a drop of BLO by hand until it disappeared, and continue until the whole stock was covered. Repeat every day for a week, then every week for a month, then every month from then on.

 

[whughett]

I use a product call Watco Danish Oil.

 

[MI2600]

Now can the BLO be applied right over the current military finish, or is there other preparation?

 

[1KPerDay]

You can apply it. I'd wipe it down with a throw away towel and mineral spirits until the grunge is mostly off first.