If you have an old gun, I agree with ed. I wouldn't put a Silvers pad on an old gun. I have one here that I ordered years ago, but I didn't like the look so I never used it. (No offense to those who do) But I wouldn't put a wooden pad on either. That gives a gun a more modern look like on an expensive Beretta 687. On an old gun I think I would go with a horn pad if one could withstand the recoil of not having a pad. Galazans sells them. I put one on an old Parker for a guy a few years ago and it really looked sharp. But, if you are set on using the Silvers pad I would use some mink oil and lanolin and neatsfoot oil along with a little silicone. And you can get all of that in a product I have mentioned on here before. It is called Mr. Leather. You can use it on your leather covered pads also. And when you get done, try it on the leather in your car. It will outlast these cheap conditioners like Armor All and stay on your car all summer long. But good luck with your pad. The eye of the beholder type of thing.