My apologies for the "Garand" picture - I wanted to show the forum what could be accomplished with Walnut wood with available stain and oil finishes today, and it's final result compared to my current project. I have that precise example to show, done by my hand, with the same wood, independent of it's time period or source. I focused on the wood and finish only, not the firearm.
I have spent over 40 years studying under masters of multiple trades - from Sam Adams (yes, the direct relation) to Mark Allen, one of the finest Silversmiths in New England. I have spent hundreds of hours in historic aircraft restoration, held some of the most iconic flintlock rifles known (Smithsonian) and trained under some of the finest craftsmen in the world. I know 0.0001% of what they do, but I want to keep these methods alive, active and if it helps just one craftsman, then all the years were worth it.
If the Garand Photo offends, I will remove, PM me and I will give you the exact process to duplicate if that finish is what you are looking for.
Even this forum, a global, instant response platform sharing skills and information from hundreds (or thousands) of smart, talented, educated and skilled masters did not exist even 30 years ago - I know, I was involved when this internet thing all started, I was one of the first people to post images in the "internet" for AOL/Reuters in the 80's. To criticize a post of a picture of a more modern rifle to explain the finishing of the stock wood that could replicate a classic or "contemporary", on a 2016 internet forum is being slightly Obtuse.
My most sincere apologies for pushing the limits - When the current flintlock rifle carries the same finish, I will replace the image to stay within the same theme. If the current image is not in practice with the forum rules, I will remove immediately.
Jon
