If it's an inexpensive Russian capture K-98, then it isn't new and likely has been fired plenty, and that flaky stuff on the stock is probably shellac.
Take the action out of the stock and get rid of all that cosmo and crap. I used engine degreaser and WD-40 for most of the metal work followed up by ample amounts of CLP.
As for the shellac, denatured alcohol will remove it, or at least get rid of the flakes. If you want to refinish the stock then some TSP salt or Easy Off will strip the stock right down.