Wood stock repair? (Sks)

[u/smclassy]

Hey,

My all matching Sks came with a few dings and scratches. Was wondering what is the method and way to clean it up? Thinking maybe a sand down without messing with the Tula star and numbers.

So far, ive researched and come up with:

Slight damp Cloth and clothes iron for deep holes/cuts (?!?!)

Light sand to smoothen and make a smooth feel

Linseed and or other oil to give it that laminate feel and protection.

Thank you, happy easter

[u/The_red_rabbit_ii]

Before any removal of finish, I would test if that finish is shellac.

The test is real simple, a drop of alcohol. If it is sticky, it is shellac.

If it is indeed shellac, you don't need to strip anything. New shellac melt old shellac, and becomes one layer.

Nothing you can do about the gouges. Please don't sand the stock.