I just tried to upload a picture of a rifle I restocked with English walnut recently, but my computer said the file was too large. It has a beautiful reddish-brown backround with lots of dark black streaks and figure in the butt. It certainly was ahard piece of wood. As far as finish, Tru-Oil, when appled right and given enough coats with sanding between each coat, does a nice job. My personal preference is a urethane, which can be left glossy, or given a satin sheen finish. I've been using Minwax Helmsman Spar urethane and really like the results. The key with either method is to go slowly, and don't get in a hurry to rush the job.
Whatever you choice, have a good time with it, and good luck.....