I would suggest if you are willing.... To strip the wood using citrusstrip, once that's removed use a neutralizer then lightly sand if needed, restrain and put about 13 coats of true oil and wet sand about every 3-4 coats.
I tend to get anxious as well. What disturbs me almost as much are the local kids who are under 18 that drop in the event as if they are seriously looking to purchase. I don't think any unaccompanied minor(s) should be allowed into the event.
I like Saturday(early) because Friday those guys are still trying to get their booth time paid off so the prices are firm and Sunday almost everything I want is usually gone and prices are flexible. Saturday is probably the busiest day but earlier the better.
Yes, start with a finished receiver! I built an ak from scratch and proper tooling makes the world of difference. Having a kiln and riveting would be your biggest challenge without proper equipment.