[wterrell]

I am no expert. And with this in mind, read on.

These grips are new and not original so I would treat them differently than old grips. Stain them to suit your fancy and then use polyurethane until you reach the gloss that you desire. The stuff will soak into the wood and seal them forever. And polyurethane is clear, so it will not cloud the stain that you have applied.

Just my 2�¢ worth.