I picked up a post '64 model 70 the other day in 7mm mag because I thought it was a very good price, in part because it needs a little TLC. Barrel and bolt looked good. I took the action out and took care of a bit of rust I found underneath. Stock needs some sanding and re-finishing. I was planning on using several coats of True Oil.

What is the black fore end tip and pistol grip cap made of on this 1973 rifle and will True Oil work to refinish it? I'm asking here because this is about the only shooting board I'm on. Thanks.

DON'T SAND IT!
Use a stripper and scrape the old finnish off.

Sven: There are whole books written on the various ways to finish and refinish walnut stocks. It is all but impossible for any of us to give you a "how to" in a couple of short paragraphs here. Do some 'googling' and get some written or DVD information. That is not to say you can't do it, YOU CAN. Just get the methods down first for optimum finish removal, ding repair, finish of the black phenolic fore-tip and grip cap de-whiskering the wood, filling of the wood, application of stain if required, application of finish material (I like Tru Oil) and final rubout. There are a couple of ways to finish off the recoil pad too. And for an all weather rifle, the barrel channel should be sealed also.

Between your research and the stock re-finish, you have a very neat winter project. You have to decide what you want as a finished surface look and then use the best method to achieve that finish. ..... Big Cholla

Hmmm, might have to go visit Amazon.com or something. Didn't think there'd be that much too it. I've done quite a bit of woodworking and love working with walnut. But I had no idea what to do with the black plastic fore-tip.

Thanks.

Consider a hand rubbed boiled linseed oil finish. It is easy with little mess and will last a long time and is easy to touch up and repair. Its also what the old timers used! Strip off the old varnish with varnish remover and card with oooo steel wool. The forum members gave some great advice, study up on how to do it and most important what not to do. Do not sand the stock, it makes for poor fitting butt plate, etc.! A Winchester is said to "stand proud", meaning the wood stock is always a bit over the metal in the wood to metal fit. Hopes this helps.

I prefer Formby's Tung Oil. It is easier to apply, less sticky and faster drying than Tru Oil. Also, the finish is not quite as shiney as Tru Oil and it's easier to touch up. Here's a .22 I did with Formby's a few months ago:

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Regards, Ron
USASA 1965/69