I made mention of refinishing TC stocks in another post so it might have been that reference that you saw. First, I don't disagree with what roundball said but I personally think the varnish finish that T/C used to use on older models looks awful and does nothing to show the character of the wood. The walnut stocks don't have a lot of character in the grain anyway, but that varnish makes it look yellow and too light, IMO. THe varnish also scratches easily and shows scratches prominently. Therefore, I don't think the varnish finish looksappealing to the eye or provides adequate protection to the wood. If you feel the same way, then you can refinish the stock.

Second, I respectfully disagree with cayugad about the hardware being a pain to take off andput back on. I find it to be quite easy, as it only involves removing a few screws and then reinstalling the hardware with the same screws in the holes that are already there. It is really very simple and easy to do. I also don't like the brass fittings on T/C's Hawkens andonce removed, take the opportunity to darken them with blueing compound. Of course, this is again a matter of personal taste but the hardware has to be removed if you desire to darken it.

If you desire ot refinish your stock, here is a direct link to my post with instructions.http://www.huntingnet.com/forum/fb.aspx?m=1350600 The only thing I would add is that an old toothbrush works great for removing the old varnish and varnish remover that gets into the inleted areas.

The oil finishes i have used are Fornby's Tung oil and Watco Danish Oil. Both give great results. Besides looking considerably better, IMO, minor scratches in an oil finish can be easily repaired by rubbing the oil into the scratch.