I think #3 is very likely your best option. Unless you really want to refinish a stock. I personally would deduct more on my offer for a Tru oil refinish than I would for even substantial nicks and scratches.

No, I do not think Tru Oil will match the heavy gloss finish if that is what the gun has.

Me, I would keep the 686. And probably the nicks and scratches also.

 

Option 1 is the only one that will give you an even colored finish on the wood because Beretta and most other gun makers apply a stain in their finishes so that they can use dissimilar wood colors on buttstock and forend. In other words, by using a stain in the finish that they spray on, they don't have to slow down production by trying to mate colors between forend and buttstock. You say you are experienced but the finish put on these guns by the factory can be a problem to get completely stripped. On the plus side I have seen some spectacular figure emerge from under the sprayed on stain used by Beretta.

Since you are committed to selling the gun I suggest that option 3 is the best because refinishing although not difficult takes time. You would also have to worry about the checkering to make sure it is not damaged with the sanding process. Good luck!

 

Option 3. Refinished guns often are worth less than scratched original finish. I might just try a wee bit o stain to hide the scratches better if they are light colored and through the original stain and that would be it. Something like Watco Danish oil in a color as close as possible.

 

Thanks for your input, it is appreciated. I will be going with option #3.