Chuck, NEVER use steel wool on oak. The steel fibers can leave residue in the wood (in the grain or in the joints) and the tannins in the oak will chemically react with the iron and cause black stains in the oak. Doesn't require much moisture to cause the reaction, normal humidity will do it over time. That's why you seldom see antique oak furniture with iron hinges or pulls, but rather with brass hardware. If you must buff the finish, use brass wool or Scotch Brite from an auto body supply to knock down the gloss.
Where is John Mann when we need him?
