A good question-I find Deft gloss polyurethane (
www.deftfinishes.com) to be the best I have used to finish stocks.The gloss is best as you can knock the gloss down with scotch pads to what you want.I find the best way to apply it is an air brush or small touch up spray gun as the spray cans are only good for smaller parts.Remember lighting is critical to spraying finishes and small lights are available in most hard ware stores. Another point is to keep the temperature at 75 degrees + while spraying and curing.It might take a few more coats on laminated wood to get the finish perfect.
Another way to finish this would be to have a car painting shop apply a clear coat to your stock . I do remember a gentleman on
www.rimfireCentral.com /forums/ who does great work at very reasonable prices for a clear finish.
Glenn