Refinish goncalo alves grips

[burrhead]

I bought a used S&W 686 today that's wearing a nice set of Hogue goncalo alves grips with finger grooves. I like the grips but dislike the finger grooves so I'm planing on sanding then off. I'm a wood worker and have the tools and skill to reshape the grips but, having never worked with this material, I don't know what to finish them with.

Anybody put a finish on this stuff? Thinking about using tung oil or satin poly but I don't know what this wood will accept. I'm open to options. Any thoughts?

TIA

 

[rcmodel]

I would try finish sanding them, and then buffing to a high gloss on a cotton buffing wheel.

It's kind of got built-in wax and buffs out fine.
But some finishes won't stick to it well.

Be aware the dust from it is poison, so wear a good dust mask while working it.

rc

 

[BBBBill]

...Be aware the dust.. is poison...

^^^^

Also, some of those fugly S&W finger groove grips are bringing a pretty high price with collectors. You might consider selling them as is and just buying what you want.

 

[burrhead]

Thanks. I know the dust is toxic and, the more I'm looking at this thing, I think I may just sell it and go with a set from Hogue without the grooves. I got a good enough deal I don't mind putting in a little more money.

Thanks again.

 

[burrhead]

BBBill, posted at the same time. These aren't S&W grips but after market from Hogue.