stock finishing temperature

K

ks_wayward_son

New member
This may seem like a strange question, but is there an "optimum temperature range" in which to condition stocks? I have recently taken down my Enfield No. 4 and really would like to freshen up the wood on it...but of course in the dead of winter...and its about 20 or so degrees. I may think of attempting the procedure in-doors, but ventilation is a problem. I think it would somewhat have an affect on the blo treatment I want to use. Perhaps if I was running a space heater also...would that provide enough warmth (keep me from freezin' my hind end off too :p). But then again, I heard that BLO can be prone to spontaneously combust :rolleyes:...geez...maybe I should just wait till springtime. IDK...thoughts, opinions?
 
BLO will be hard to dry in cold temps. It's also prone to bleed in high humidity. Tung oil would be better. Optimum temp is 65-85 for most stains etc. I've done them in colder weather but drying time is really long.
 
Last edited:
Average room temps (65~80) should be comfortable for both you & your wood.
You could accelerate the process with a hair dryer passed back & forth till all the stock is evenly warmed. This will absolutely not ignite anything.
Alternatively you could vigorously rub the oiled wood with a rough fabric like burlap. This will heat & burnish at the same time.
 
Build a plywood box large enough to hold the stock and put a 30W lightbulb inside it. Make sure the bulb is not close enough to the stock to scorch it. The bulb will heat the inside of the box and cure the finish.
 
BLO can be prone to spontaneously combust
Click to expand...

Any rags you use can be, just rinse them in hot water.

BLO does not have much in the way of 'gas off' I do all my refinish indoors in my office area with the window cracked open a few inches and the door closed.
 
both blo and tung oil have great smells, way better than anyting glade has to offer. the vapor out put is low and plesant, it is ok to do in the kitchen.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top