Generally originals were not sealed in the inlets- and you can see the rot. I use shellac diluted with mineral spirits. Penetrates well and dries fast. You could also dilute whatever topcoat you will use with mineral spirits to get the good penetration. I remove lock and barrel and buttplate and sideplate and trigger and triggerguard and ramrod pipes when I stain. Not inlays- just parts that are removable normally.
