Originally Posted By Kujo:
I have a WASR id like to refinish but have never refinished anything so sorry for the beginner questions.
Is the purpose of these steps originality? can you not get a similar style stain and sealant at say, lowes or home depot?
You can. Most won't get this red without the dye. Poly-based stains, like Minwax, give a good gloss, but can melt when the handguards get smokin hot. I've seen it happen.
I used red mahoganny Watco Danish oil and wet sanded. Inbetween the 1st and 2nd coats, I wanted it more red, so I used red food coloring, sanded, added several more layers of the Danish oil over a few days. No gloss, but I didn't want shine. The Danish oil seals the wood completely. Be careful though, the used rags can spontaneously combust if not allowed to air or if placed in a closed trash can, etc.