Peter B
Bet every one of the gunstocks left steel particlees in there. It is almost impossible not to. In some cases they leave freckles you can see across the room in poor light. Used in wet weather the freckles will be at least visible under magnification.
The pores in thinned finishes are a matter that is easily tested and proven. Thinned finishes do not stand up to water like unthinned. (All finsihes have thinners, but quantity makes a big difference)
The severity of the weather the stock is used in makes a big difference. Oil may be all you need... YMMV.
art
