I've used B-W Plum Brown for years with fine results. But for whatever reason, I could not get a good browned finish on the Pedersoli barrel. Figured 'Oh well (not those exact words!), I'll strip it and do it old school (controlled rust)'. Started stripping the barrel with Tetra Gun, hot water and bronze wool. Lo and behold, instead of the usual bare-ish steel, a beautiful dark (durable) pewter finish. A serendipitously pleasant surprise, indeed! I like it far more than a browned finish. I'll give it a coat of Renaissance Wax tomorrow. I have very mineral-y water and wonder if that may have contributed to it. Concerning bronze wool, it's softer than steel wool and far less likely to scratch steel or wood finishes. Plus it won't leave rust prone bits in stock wood pores. Hope this helps.