Hi,

I used the search function but didn't find what I needed. Is there a quick and easy way to strip Truoil from a stock? I need to re-do the stain underneath, so I've got to get it completely clean. It is really smooth and well shaped right now, so I'm not keen on sandpapering it off.

thanks,
Todd

I don't know what is in Truoil but I would try Formby's furniture refinisher first as it is reasonably benign but has worked well for me on military stocks. If the Trueoil contains varnish it may be more difficult and require a varnish remover.

There are some really fine stock folks on here and hopefully they will chime in.

Any quality paint stripper should work just fine. Might take a couple of applications. I lightly scratch the surface with either sandpaper or steel wool first, breaks the "surface tension" so to speak.

thanks - will try those. I have some MEK but that is nasty stuff and I would rather not use it if I don't have to.

T

Another thought: Assuming you don't have a lot of surface build up, don't be afraid to bronze wool the existing finish down to matte and stain over the sealed surface using a dye rather than pigment stain. It's easier to control color on a sealed surface than raw wood.

i dunno - what's miss tru oils first name??

I have iterated this previously on another AR Forum, so here it goes. Apply your favorite paint and varnish remover liberally and cover the stock with Saran wrap. The Saran wrap traps the active softening ingredient keeping it from evaporating and forces it to do it's job. Use a plastic scraper or steel/bronze wool for removal of the bulk of the gooey finish. Wipe the stock down with rags liberally soaked with lacquer thinner. Should some finish remain, re apply remover and Saran wrap. This said, prepare yourself for some sanding ritual prior to applying your new stain/finish combination. Good luck with this method, it works well.

Stephen