[wterrell]

Go down to your local hardware store and ask for varnish remover. There should be several spirits that will safely remove the varnish but leave the stain unchanged. Be sure that it is not varnish & stain remover. Whatever you purchase, use it on a test piece of varnished & stained wood prior to using it on your grips.

I would not be afraid to use acetone but will not immediately recommend it without experimentation on a stained & varnished piece of wood first.