T03 - 17 .22 LR Russian Riffle Restoration

[Kevin Arsenault]

Hi Everyone,

I have inherited a Russian T03-17 .22 LR in decent shape, it has significant value to me because it was my uncle's firearm before he passed.

I touched up a few places with cold bluing where the original bluing was rubbed off and looks pretty darn good, there is some minor damage to the stock, can anybody give me some directions how to strip the stock and how to restore it. Do I have to strip where the checkering is as well?

Some people claim the stock finish is shellac or lacquer, I assume I would need to strip with a stripper, sand wood down and put varnish or another form of sealer to protect it, I was also told after stripping it, stain may not stick to it.

Any suggestions would be appreciated very much.

Thanks

 

[Why not?]

First suggestion is to NOT sand the stock. Strip the finish, but don't sand it.

Ted

 

[Kevin Arsenault]

How do I strip the finish on the checkering?

 

[Why not?]

Use the same stripping agent, and apply with a clean toothbrush. The checkering on the TOZ 17 is rather easy to clean.

Ted

 

[Kevin Arsenault]

Thanks so much Why not?, after the stock is stripped, is there a certain type of stain I should use? and what should I use for the final finish, Varnish or urethane? I really appreciate the help, the riffle means a lot to me.

 

[MRP]

True oil. A 702 plinkster clip can fit with a little trinkering.

 

[OneBarfly]

I had to strip mine, just used chemicals and a brush. I'd use an oil rub of your choice as finish. I actually used a clear matte polyurethane finish; however, while it looked great, it was affected by cleaning solvents, so that's why I'd go with oil. The original finish appeared to be similar to shellac with some black resin or tar mixed-in, but that's only my observation.

PS: Gunpartscorp has "New Factory Original Press-Checkered Walnut Stained Hardwood" Stock available for US$40 (plus, plus, maybe minimums$, blah) but not a bad option. I may spring for one.

 

[Brutus]

True oil. A 702 plinkster clip can fit with a little trinkering.

Last time I checked Marstar actually sells this five round magazine for this specific rimfire rifle.

 

[MRP]

Last time I checked Marstar actually sells this five round magazine for this specific rimfire rifle.

Good to know. I still have 2, 6 shot originals and a 10 shot 702 convention. Mine is C204xx serial number, a buddy of mine has a three digit number. Never pass one up if you see it for sale.