I prefer a hand rubbed finish. I use tung oil and linseed oil, mixed with japan drier. 1/2 tsp of each oil and 1 tsp of the japan drier, this mixes just enough to do the entire stock and have a little left over for each coat. How many coats you put on is up to you. I usually apply anywhere from 7 to 10 coats preceded by a light scuff with 0000 steel wool. There are any number of solvents you can use to remove the old finish, if you don't know how to recut the checkering leave it alone after you remove the finish and use a toothbrush dipped in the oil mixture and work in well during each coat of oil.