Here's a little tip on the rottenstone/lindseed oil rub out. It's not the rottenstone that is dulling the finish, it's the lindseed oil. Rottenstone is the finest natural polishing powder available to the woodworker. It is for putting a high gloss on your finish. That's why when you handle the stock it takes on the high gloss look. You have merely rubbed through the lindseed oil.
For an eggshell/low sheen over an existing finish, I level the finish with 400 grit wet/dry sandpaper in the direction of the bore. I then apply my new finish and let dry to a tack, then wipe it all off with a lint free rag. It will take a minumum of 6 coats to have a durable finish.
