Hi again. I've successfully stripped a mid-60's Ruger stock. The wood is farily light colored, and I would like to darken it up a bit. Can anyone recommend a system? I'm reluctant to employ one brand of stain with another brand of oil product, as the two might not be compatible. I've successfully finished and refinished stocks using Laurel Mountain Permalyn, an oil-modified polyurethane. I've used it as an in-the-wood finish, wet sanding the oil and rubbing the sanding detritus into the pores.

My objective is a classic, low-luster oil finish.

I actually use a dye vs stain. A stain will have larger particles and not enter the wood as far. I get mine from http://woodworking.rockler.com/search?w=wood%20dye

I've used both the Transtint and Homestead Dry. Use alcohol to thin a little dye goes a long way. Apply thin coat and repeat until you get the color you want. You can also blend in sap or light colored wood.

Thanks, Ramrod. There's a Rockler store nearby. I'll have a look.