How to hide a scratch in checkered wood stock

[flabbydan]

I don't mind a few marks on a gun that come from hunting or normal use, but while mounting a scope on a rifle, I put a scratch in the checkering on the forend with my thumbnail :x .  It isn't big, but it really stands out against the darker wood around the scratch.  I was wondering if I could apply some sort of finish to the scratch to darken it a little.  It's not something I can't live with.  It just really ticks me off that I dinged a new rifle that I haven't even shot yet.  Any advice would be greatly appreciated.  Thanks,
Dan

[John Traveler1]

Hi, Dan!

If the checkering is only scuffed with your fingernail, it's an easy fix:

Stockmakers normally use a small toothbrush to apply some oil finish to checkered areas.  This can be tung oil (my favorite), boiled linseed oil, TruOil, Linspeed, etc.  Furniture touchup oil (danish oil finish) would work too.  A light touchup, let the wound absorb the oil, and then wipe off excess.  That should do it!

[1911crazy]

I have repaired scratches with Formby's Tung oil finish high gloss.  You can find it  at Walmart.  I have even hidden really bad scratches on the butt of the gun stocks too.

[flabbydan]

Thanks for the help.  I have some Tru-oil laying around somewhere that I think I'll try.

[lefty o]

thin out that tru oil before putting it into checkering.

[Scota]

I use a bronze suede brush.  Tooth brushes are too soft for my tastes.

[davidsan]

Apply a small dab of mayonnaise to exposed area will turn dark in a couple of days,wipe off excess and use protective finish.