Refinishing

[ridjrunr]

Looking for real experiance input on what are some of the better strippers out there for takeing off a clear varnish type finish on a Pedersoli.
Tia

[dmarsh]

I have had good luck on refinishing Thompsons with Citri-strip.             

   https://www.amazon.com/Citri-Strip-QCSG801-Paint-Stripping-Gel/dp/B07LF8T6PM/ref=sr_1_11?ie=UTF8&qid=1549077153&sr=8-11&keywords=citrastrip

Smells ok too so no complaints from my wife with the sensitive sense of smell.  Some times it takes a couple of applications.  I use scrapers to get it off.   

Good Luck,

Dave

[rollingb]

I have had good luck on refinishing Thompsons with Citri-strip.             

   https://www.amazon.com/Citri-Strip-QCSG801-Paint-Stripping-Gel/dp/B07LF8T6PM/ref=sr_1_11?ie=UTF8&qid=1549077153&sr=8-11&keywords=citrastrip

Smells ok too so no complaints from my wife with the sensitive sense of smell.  Some times it takes a couple of applications.  I use scrapers to get it off.   

Good Luck,

Dave

Same here! 

[ridjrunr]

Thanks, is that the one thats non toxic? I had forgot the name but had heard of that in the past I think.

Yup, just read the specs, I think thats a pretty sure bet, thanks again

[prairie dog]

I use citri-strip as well.  Non-toxic, orange color gel, doesn't stink.

[ridjrunr]

Yesterday,I started stripping the Pedersoli 1807 pistol using citrus strip. Cant imagine anything would work easier. Next question is how or can be used to darken the european walnut before putting on a blo finish? I may try my vinagroon mixture in the barrel channel but wanted some input first. Or should I just use a wood stain.?

[prairie dog]

I am a fan of the Laural Mountain forge stains.

[rollingb]

I am a fan of the Laural Mountain forge stains.

Times 2. 

[Uncle Russ]

Dan, on any "Varnish" type finish that I have had to re-finish, I strip it first with a "Jerry Fisher" scraper, then I sand it with 400, then I apply some sort of Citrus stripper, then another light sanding before staining, if I decide to stain....even when I do stain I sand again with 400, then 600.

I have a complete set of Jerry Fisher Scrapers, so there is no nook or cranny, even checkering up to 20 lpi, I can't get to.
If you would like to borrow them I will gladly send them to you.

[dmarsh]

I too prefer Laurel Mountain Stains however I have found that no stain and just oil darkens walnut just fine for my taste.  I have tried store bought BLO and the results were not stellar.  I prefer a Tung Oil.  Just my opinion.   

Dave