Staining/Finishing Around Inlays

[JLayne]

I’m about at the staining and finishing stage on a project. I’m am planning to use Kibler’s Iron Nitrate and Tannic Acid, which will be a first attempt. The rifle has a steel nose cap and some silver inlay work. Would you recommend masking off the inlays and nose cap before applying the solutions, or is it okay if some gets on them and I just sand it off during the rub back process?

Thanks,
Jay

[smart dog]

Hi,
Nope.  Just leave them in and carry on.  I wipe the stock with ammonia after the stain just in case any acidity remains, which theoretically does not.  You could use a couple of teaspoons of baking soda in a cup of water as well.

dave

[Not English]

Jay,

I wouldn't worry about the silver inlays. They'll polish up OK. You mentioned a steel nose cap, If you're going to brown the steel furniture, leave it on. If you're leaving it white or something else, I'd take the muzzle cap off. It could save time later on.

Dave