This is true.
The SKS stock was a clearance table special in poor shape and the Mosin stocks are all "pre-bubba'd". As for the rimfires, the 2 that were salvageable I did just that. For the other 2, the one stock was in dire need of restoration and had 0 finish left, and the other was so far gone that anything I did to it was only going to improve it's function, appearance, and value so I let my daughter choose the color she liked as it will be hers one day.
Most people who are passionate about collecting and preserving antique and surplus firearms have a huge issue with anyone attempting any level of refinishing on a gun. For the most part (excluding the rarer and more valuable firearms), I don't share their same viewpoint. IMHO if it is someone else's firearm that was purchased with their hard earned money who am I to pass judgement on how they see fit to "upgrade" it? What irritates me much more is seeing a collectible firearm that has been completely neglected and ruined by rust, mold, and mildew. I find what you are doing as admirable..finding parts or non-working firearms and giving them new life for you and your family to enjoy.