I just received a set of his retro-bananas for my 657 and while I really like the shape I am not pleased with the finish. It feels as if the final coat was an overspray leaving a fine gritty feel. Is this normal? Any idea how to "knock it down", rottenstone perhaps?

Here is what I do, I have been very pleased with results and have been asked how I got them so nice.
I have Stock conditioner from Birchwood Casey, I use that rather vigorously
several times, then I use their GunStock Wax.
I think they come out great.
I am attaching a quick photo that shows a new pair I have not played with yet and stocks on a gun that I have.
I am guessing the wax and the elbow grease is most important, but stock conditioner makes it go faster. I would guess that car polish might work too, or anything really ,really fine and yet abrasive. I bet Renaissance wax and their pre cleaner would do same thing too.

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I like everything about Ahrends grips except the water-based standard finish. I order then unfinished and apply a few thin coats of Tru-oil rubbed in:

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I agree. I'm a fan of Tru-Oil for stocks. After a few coats have cured hit the stocks with 0000 steel wool (with light pressure) to give it the satin finish.

Same here. I love their maple grips, but since my first pair ( I now have 6), I order them unfinshed and apply up to ten coats Tru-Oil and rub with fine steel wool between coats. Final product is beautifu. My avatar shows a pair on a 686.

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John

I have the Birchwood Casey Conditioner so will give it a go.