The Russian Mosin Nagant Forum

Thought I'd share this video I made showing the results of some TLC on some of my Garand and M1 Carbine, nothing more complicated than boiled lindseed oil, elbow grease, patience and some finishing wax.

I'm pretty pleased with the results! What do you think?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ZCwCZDJitI

It's an old government formula that probably goes back to the 19th century. As for the Finn wax, this is recorded in use by French troops during the Napoleonic wars, and is probably older than that. Both are common ways of preserving wood stocks that are not shellac finished. The BLO is used to preserve the wood spokes on my Model T's wheels. BLO is something you would use as a last resort, as in the stock is going to crack it's so dry, here in the northeast we have more than enough humidity in the air that no steps like this need be taken. Just some lemon oil or furniture wax will keep the stocks just fine.

Fantastic rifles! What a great video. This raises a question I have...I have heard that tung oil should be used instead of boiled linseed oil. What is the difference between the two in regards to gun stock conditioning?

Im not sure the difference..i used Tung oil on my ak over stain i used...and it turned out pretty good

Great Video...Thanks for sharing

Lets no take it too far, there is a fine line between using chemicals to preserve wood and outright refinishing it.

Tung oil will get way too shiny. Gov't specs called for Pure Linseed Oil. Its far easier to use Boiled Linseed Oil today, and will achieve the same subdued finish look and moisture protection the U.S. Government standards required in its day.

Semper Fi, Rob

Thanks for the info. I didn't want to put a shine on the stocks...I just wanted to keep them conditioned.