I have finished a number of stocks. I strip them down and if there are any nicks or scratches, I iron them out. Stain then to the colour and depth you want. Useing 0000 Steel wool smothe the stock down, then apply a coat of Tung oil. Let dry, use the #0000 steel wool again and apply another coat of tung oil. Continue this till you have the finish you want. You can put anywhere from 5 to 15 coats on. Sounds like work, but it really is simple and not time consuming at all.

I like to use Formby's Tung oil. The stock will shine, but won't transmit light. And it's weather proof.