How to Remove Mold From Gunstocks

Mildew and mold can form on your gun's wooden stock.

Proper cleaning and maintenance of your hunting weapon is critical to extending its lifetime. For example, mold or mildew often forms when moisture remains on the stock. Consequently, you should clean your gun's wooden stock periodically. Before you start to clean the stock, make sure your weapon is unloaded and the firing mechanism is locked in the open position. Remember to wear gloves when working with chemical products like stain, polyurethane, even linseed oil or stock oil

Things You'll Need

• Steel wool
• Clean rag
• Fine-grade sandpaper
• Bleach
• Water
• Stain
• Polyurethane

Instructions

1. Detach the stock from your weapon using a screwdriver. Make note of all the areas on the stock that are covered with mold and rub these areas down with steel wool. Then rub down the rest of the stock, and wipe it clean with a dry rag.

2. Remove mildew on the stock that is below the surface, using fine-grade sandpaper, then wipe it down again with the dry rag.

3. Wipe the stock with a rag that's been soaked in a mixture of bleach and water to kill any lingering spores. Soapy water should also do the trick. Lay the stock out to dry for at least 12 hours.

4. Apply a layer of stain with a rag, especially on discolored areas. Let the stock dry, though only for three to four hours.

5. Coat the stock with polyurethane. Let the initial coat sit for two to four hours before applying a second coat, which must dry for 12 hours before reassembling your weapon.

References

• The Gunstock Doctor: Information
• Gun Valley Molders: About
• Fairtrimmer's: Military ox Gunstock Oil: Home