Stock Finish Help

[Tommie]

I did a stock finishing job once.
Then I shipped it to BC’z to be stripped and completely redone.
Lesson learned.

 

[Twdmar]

I want to put in every effort needed for it to turn out right. I do want it all. This stock has some extremely pretty grain so I didn’t want it stained. I just want a clear gloss on it.

What kind of wood is it? Maple with no grain enhancement will look pretty bland.
A clear dewaxed shellac could be used to pop the grain and it changes the color very little and should take most finishes over the top.
Lacquer is another option. It looks pretty good and can be repaired. It's not as tough as auto clear though.
How good are you with a paint gun and how much do you like sanding? I prefer an oil finish unless I'm doing silly dye jobs like electric guitars.