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

[Wizard]

Well, after rushing home. I ran into the house, fumbled with the combination, threw open the safe door and grabbed the rifle. While fully expecting it to fall into a pile of unrecognizable pieces, it turns out it was just an optical illusion...

[Rumbler]

[quote author=Wizard link=topic=138.msg1178#msg1178 date=1336696515]

Well, after rushing home. I ran into the house, fumbled with the combination, threw open the safe door and grabbed the rifle. While fully expecting it to fall into a pile of unrecognizable pieces, it turns out it was just an optical illusion...
[/quote]




WHEW! I'd much rather it be an optical delusion than a fig newton of my imagination.

[mogar]

Many joked about using urine to color wood, but there is a real such process in the history of furniture making. It is called 'fuming' the wood. It involved putting the piece in a closed container with animal urine in a tray below. I've never done it myself, but imagine there is an airing out process afterwards. If I remember correctly, it was commonly done with oak. I'll see what I can find about the process.

[mogar]

I found info on fuming wood, and it sure looks like that red color on the AKs. check out:
lumberjocks.com/topics/19362

They use ammonia, and apparently household ammonia will work. Industrial ammonia is dangerous to work with and requires protective gear. Also somewhat seriously explosive.

[Masharubu]

Thanks, mogar. That is an interesting process. Historically, us humans didn't have such delicate sensibilities. I think it could be argued we were better for it...