Sliding Wood patchbox question

[J Shingler]

It has been mentioned many times that most of the original patch box interiors did not have stain. What I don't remember hearing about is the underside of the lid. Were they stained or left "blond" Finishing up a Kibler Colonial for a friend that is modified to have set triggers.

[Sidelock]

  I can't recall an original that I have examined that was finished on the underside side of the wood lid.  I have left that area unfinished on several I have built - haven't heard any complaints. 

[Scota4570]

It is not a good idea to only finish one side of such a thin piece of wood.  Humidity change may warp it if left raw on the back. 

I have no idea on originals, never actually held a nice one.  On my builds I did not stain the inside of the lid.  My thought was that heating such a thin piece need to be done carefully, why push my luck by doing the inside? 

[t.caster]

The original lids I have seen were stained and finished inside. The inlet box was not stained.
Whatever you do with the stain is up to you. The wood will darken with age anyway
I usually apply a light Honey Maple stain and SEALER in ALL my inlets and barrel channel to protect the wood.

[Waksupi]

I don't see stain as a problem inside the patch boxes. The devil is getting finish in there. If you do, you will end up scraping it out of the dove tails for easy use. I do lightly wax the ways of the dovetail.

[J Shingler]

Thanks guys. Appreciate the input.
Jeff