OK- I have sanded all of the bits and applied the first coats of varnish. I would say that the factory used a linseed oil but mine was so sun checked and cracked I need a finish that would harden up and hold much of the veneer lifted bits together. First coats are gloss which shows off the wood. Now I need to tone it all down to look hand oiled gunstock style like it came using a matt finish. I am not a wood person so some future collector will be cursing me.

Forgive the links-- somehow I cannot copy the correct bit on Imgur to get a photo to show up.

[img]https://i.imgur.com/k7exszJ.jpg[/img]
[img]https://i.imgur.com/1SCYKew.jpg[/img]

Looking great! I think you'll find what you need at the local gunsmiths - anyone used to dealing with English guns will be able to help out...

Not sure what's going on with the photos but both links take me to a photo of this chap:

Sounds like you're making good progress on the wood though!

Not sure what to say--but it looks about as good as my wood does at the moment.

Just a quick update. I believe I saved the wood veneer from further deterioration. Will never look like new with my lack of wood refinish skills but my last few coats of matte finish have dulled the high gloss enough to look more acceptable.

https://i.imgur.com/mnlZMLh.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/HPFH0VA.jpg

RutlandRover wrote:

Not sure what's going on with the photos but both links take me to a photo of this chap:

I see pics of wood trim.. Isn't that you supping the coffee?

Thought I would show a few photos of my refinished trim installed.

[img]https://i.imgur.com/6uTCa0x.jpg[/img]

[img]https://i.imgur.com/3xqhtii.jpg[/img]

Excellent work.
Well done

Thank you JMC-- From you that is high praise!

James, did you get my PM with the part number for the bumper blanking plates?

@Gilbertd, yes but none available anywhere.
Thanks

That looks a lot nicer than the glossy wood the rest of us got!

Thanks Rutland-- I took a chance and got lucky--yeah---looks good to me.