I'm expecting to get my Encore in the next month or so. I ordered it with a bare utility grade stock and fore arm because all they would do was the traditional Cherry type stain. I want my stock to be a dark gray, or even black. Gray appeals more to me though. I'd also like it to have a flat or satin finish. Nothing bright, flashy, shiny, or reflective. The metal will be all matte blue.
I am a handy guy, and feel I can do most anything with the right direction. But this is kind of a new endeavor for me, finishing wood. There are so many finish materials available I get a headache investigating them. So now I'm gonna show my ignorance here, and ask some questions that might be a bit stupid.
What type of stain should I be looking at? I've seen water base, and several other types.
With the stain you suggest, what clear would be compatible? Satin or Matte of course.
When staining something with darker colors, is it possible to still see decent highlights in the grain? This is not a priority, be would be nice.
Other than sanding, is there any prep I need to do? I've seen various products that confuse me in this area.
And here's where I might be getting just plain stupid;
Is there any way to use two colors of stain, one highlighting denser grains, while the other highlights softer grains? Kind of having it look like a laminated hunk of wood? I have a few ideas, but they might just be too stupid to relate to you pro's at this time. I have learned in life that having ideas does not necessarily mean they are realistic.
And finally....Can y'all point me to a website, or give me some basic steps that I should follow while completing this project.
I will be doing this myself. I want too. But I also want it to come out nice, and I feel with the proper direction it will. I take pride in doing things myself. But I also know when to seek advice from people more knowledgeable than myself. Spending money for quality products is not an issue. I understand that with most things in life, you get what you pay for. That said, I'm not looking to spend an arm and a leg either. This will be a hunting rifle, and will see it's share of duty. I'm not looking for an exhibition quality finish, but something very durable, and utilitarian (and if it looks pretty, all the better).
Oh, and given it's an Encore rifle, and there will likely be more barrels and forearms in it's future, it would be nice if the results I get are somewhat repeatable. And that raises another question;
if I buy larger amounts of finish materials, what kind of shelf life can I expect from them? I'm thinking of color lots changing over time. Or should I even concern myself with this at this time?
Any help or advice y'all can offer is greatly appreciated.
Jay
