I hope to refinish the wood on Superposed #31. The metal was already refinished in '84, so there is no patina, etc...oh well. Wood, like paint on a classic car, should be cared for IMHO. Steam out the dents, stain it properly, and it should last ANOTHER lifetime.
Scotty,
I wouldn't do anything to that wood. Just leave it as is and enjoy the old look. Pulling the wood on that gun is a little tricky, and you can end up with a proud trigger guard tang. Your capabilities on stock work may be far better than I am giving you credit for, but I'm just saying...
One thing I've had really good luck with on old oil/varnish finished guns to weatherproof the wood is the application of the original solvent-based Thompson's Water Seal. It is totally harmless to the finish, yet it penetrates and seals the pores against moisture, especially the checkering. Far better than any wax. You have to be careful when you buy it because the new latex version is not worth the can it comes in.
JR
