Appalachian Barn Gun Kit (Flintlock) — Step 11: Wood Finishing

After all parts are fit, the wood shape should be adjusted if necessary so that the wood does not extend beyond the metal parts. This process is usually very minimal. Wood can be removed with fine files or abrasive paper.

Once shaping is complete, the entire wood surface can be sanded, starting with approximately 150-grit paper and working up to 320 grit. Alternatively, the stock can be scraped with cabinet scrapers.

Caution: Be careful not to sand off the corners and edges of the stock, or the shape of the gun will suffer. Fold the sandpaper in half to get into corners.

Maple stocks can be stained with commercially available aniline dyes. Iron nitrate can also be used, and produces a traditional longrifle wood stain. Finish with your favorite gun stock finish.