Questions about finishing my stock.

[cp255]

Just finished bedding my single-shot Prometheus action into my Jason Avila laminate stock, and now I need to apply a clear coat finish.

Originally I planned to use SprayMax 2K automotive clear, but the fumes are pretty intense and it’s too cold to spray outside right now. By the time it warms up, pollen will probably be everywhere, and I’m concerned that spraying outdoors could contaminate the finish. I could try using a space heater in the garage, but I’m not sure how practical that will be, probably need a really good respirator to do that.

Another option I’ve been considering is spray-on polyurethane. From what I’ve read, it’s somewhat less durable and may get a little tacky in hot weather. I’m not sure how much the durability matters in my case since I plan to put Teflon tape on the areas of the stock that contact the bag and rest.

One other question: do I need to coat every exposed wood surface to properly seal it, even areas that aren’t visible, like the trigger inlet and under the recoil pad? I’ve heard that laminate stocks are already sealed, but I’m not completely certain.

 

[ricco1949]

I'd stick with your original plan to use auto clearcoat and yes a high quality respirator.

My experience with poly is it yellows with time changing the original stock lamination colors....blues turn green, etc..... Oil based is worse than water-based. It doesn't show on walnut but definitely changes brightly colored laminates.

I suspect your red laminations would turn toward an orange tinge.

 

[Walt Krafft]

Send it to Bc'Z.

 

[pilediver]

I have had great luck using a candy clear and then automotive clear on top, but I wanted to change up the color of my laminated stocks.
Automotive clear would be my recommendation.
Warm up the shop, spray and let it fume out.
For sure a good respirator.

 

[Bill Rodolph]

I wouldn't spray with an open flame going.

 

[ricco1949]

I wouldn't spray with an open flame going.

Thanks for the reminder.

I have always thought that the air tight door on my shop wood stove would be adequate spark barrier but your comment made me realize that the the rear draft intake is not air tight when closed.

 

[LVLAaron]

Put a coat of Total Boat penetrating epoxy on it for a base coat.

Get a respirator and spray it with 2k when it warms up.

 

[ricco1949]

Put a coat of Total Boat penetrating epoxy on it for a base coat.

Get a respirator and spray it with 2k when it warms up.

Does the boat penetrating epoxy fill the pores in one coat after sanding?

 

[LVLAaron]

Yes. And it gives something for the clear cost to stick to.

 

[McStocks]

Here's something I rigged up to make finishing a little less painful - my "Stock Rotisserie"!

 

[Precisionhunter417]

I second Walt. Spend the money and send it to BC. The finish will make the investment feel complete. Ihave finished my own stocks and it is at least a 30 hour process with no shortage of headaches.

BC is a masochists and loves the work.

But seriously, you will find areas you didnt do perfectly and it will pick at you every time you look at it.

 

[LVLAaron]

Absolutely no offense to BCz- I have sent him stuff and he does work that no one else comes close to matching. But if you just want a clear coat, you can do it yourself for 50 bucks over a weekend.

 

[tobnpr]

I used this on a Richard's Microfit laminate stock last month- it's satin, not gloss ( I didn't see where you specified what you are looking for). I was really pleased with the results. Takes a lot more time (I think it was 8 coats sprayed in total, wanted the depth) to apply but it's very forgiving.

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[BuffaloBill]

I’m no professional painter either but have cleared a couple laminated stocks as Aaron described. You just wet sand out imperfections and add coats as needed. It was time consuming but rewarding.

 

[Walt Krafft]

If you do it yourself, definately build a rotisserie like Steve did. I built mine from an old bbq unit. Then I decided the juice wasn't worth the squeeze and now send them to Brett.

 

[B Nettesheim]

My recommendation is to use simtech products
Yes you should seal up the stock .. everywhere

 

[Bc'z]

My recommendation is to use simtech products and bourbon

I fixed it for you. Lol

Sorry im late to the party, been rubbin wood all day...
Simtech polyester primer and clear



If you choose to go the Total Boat route apply it let cures and block it out, then apply another batch to prep for clear this will insure you get all the voids filled for a smooth finish.

 

[Bc'z]

If you do it yourself, definately build a rotisserie like Steve did. I built mine from an old bbq unit. Then I decided the juice wasn't worth the squeeze and now send them to Brett.

Looking forward to the 2 heading this way