RE: finish for refinishing a stock?
As long as the wood is walnut or another dark wood, I like Linseed oil. Try it on the barrel channel to see what colour it takes. It really enhances the grain. Plus as a bonus, it hides defects and scratches. If you go to your local gun shop, see if they have a Browning 525 Field, or another gun with a similar finish to the 525. That's what the oil will do for you.