remington model 721 30-06 springfield

[jeepasaurusrex]

There are a few places around who can "blast" the stock with dry ice and remove all the finish etc with out harming the wood. They have actually done the covers of old mildew covered books and not hurt them. 

[lokidog]

If you are looking for a brown finish, it is really easy to do yourself.  All you need is a propane torch, hot mitt and some rags.  I think it is Caseys that makes one they call plum brown.  It forms a very rust resistant finish, even on my muzzleloaders.

[Hornseeker]

If its not checkered, getting the finish off is no big deal. A long time ago my dad taught me a trick... break a good sized bottle and use the edge of the broken glass to "scrape" with the grain... takes it right down, then finish it up with 80-100 grit... then move up in grits till you get her real nice and smooth....

[lokidog]

I refinished my 870 stock, checkering and all.  Luckily the finish was loose enough I was able to use a needle and pick out each checker hole without damaging the wood.