rh111...like Bob says, Red Oak being a coarse grained wood will often produce a splotchy appearance if the grain is not sealed. It is so coarse grained that often during glue-ups when clamped glue will often come to the surface outside of the joint. I have not tried it but have seen claims that if you take a short piece you can blow water through the grain & it will come out the other end. A good grain sealer is made by Benjamin Moore. Almost a paste & is rubbed into the grain with a piece of burlap. It will then take staining with a smooth continuous color. Following staining, if you want a fairly natural look, a mixture of semi-gloss varnish & 30% by volume naptha will give you a fast drying wipe on finish...usually 5 or 6 coats is applied. For a glass like finish use high gloss varnish & naptha.
In any case that is a nice chest....keep up the good work.
Lee |