*UPDATE* Need a tip on how to stain AK furniture *Final pics*

[Wizard]

So my WASR came with wood stained furniture that is less than desirable, does anyone have suggestions on how to get that classic AK color? Found some info on the web but I was hoping for a first hand account of the best route to take.
Thanks, W

[Rumbler]

Get every bit of the old finish off it, and then get a Russian bear to tinkle on it . . ??




Sorry Wiz, just couldn't help myself. It blurted out all by itself!




Seriously though, I know a bit about wood finishing, I've done a LOT of it. But what I don't know is what type of finish is standard for the AK. Sorry. I knows I's an idjit. :-[

[The-S]

pee on it

[Wizard]

Huh, there may actually be something to this urine thing, I'll checking it out! ;D

[The-S]

lolol

[Rumbler]

I've done some googling on this trying to find a solid answer. Seems two methods of coloring the wood red have gotten the most use:


Liquid RIT dye.


Food coloring.


I even got luck enough to find one thread with both methods and pictures of the results.


http://forum.pafoa.org/rifles-42/129...rial-wasr.html


Hope 'dis helpz.

[Wizard]

[quote author=Rumbler link=topic=138.msg1041#msg1041 date=1336073064]
Hope 'dis helpz.
[/quote]

It sure does, thanks Mike! ;D

I just picked up some scarlet Rit.

[Wizard]

[quote author=Arcwelder link=topic=138.msg1044#msg1044 date=1336090576]
I would go with tong oil instead of clear coat.
but that is me.
Best luck, waiting for pics.
[/quote]

Yep, I am going with tung oil. ;D

[Wizard]

Well here's the before and after pics and I have to say it's a marked improvement from the latter but it's just the first step.
I still need to seal it and that's when it's really going to shine.

It was extremely easy and who woulda thought that $1.99 Rit dye could actually bring out the beauty in an AK? But then it brings up that whole 'lipstick on a pig' thing. :

Anyway, I'll post the final pic later.

Thanks for the Rit dye suggestion Rumbler! ;D




BEFORE




AFTER

[jonastio]

Looks nice!