Boiled Linseed Oil

[Chasper]

I'm ready to try moving up to CA/BLO finishing. I've read the articles in the library and several threads, bought my supplies and I'm ready to give it a try.

The references all refer to the linseed oil as "boiled" linseed oil. The can I bought doesn't say anything about being boiled. Is it assumed that all linseed oil that is sold for wood finishing is boiled? Do I have to boil this stuff first?

Excuse the duplication if this question has been anwsered before.

Thanks,
C

 

[jcollazo]

Boiled linseed oil has additives that allow it to dry much faster (the simple explanation). Using just linseed oil could work if you're willing to let the finish cure for weeks. If you haven't opened up the linseed oil return it and get BLO. I've bought it at Ace, True Value, Home Depot, Lowes, etc..

 

[Rifleman1776]

Joe is right. Get the boiled and get the best quality you can find. Untreated linseed oil will eventually get tacky and gummy with handling. The very best on the market is Birchwood Casey Linspeed Oil. I don't know what they do differently but it is the preferred choice for gunstockers.

 

[Chasper]

I picked up a can of the right stuff over lunch, thanks.
C