So I’m in the process of staining some wood grip panels for a gun and was curious what is the preferred coding at the end in terms of poly? Is it pretty standard to just do 2 to 3 coats of any regular polyurethane, water versus oil base, lacquer versus shellac versus something thinner? I don’t want a super shine just something to protect the wood.

I have had good luck with poly in a spray can which comes in different finish types.
Satin is what i like. Kinda dull and not real shinny.

^^^^^ I almost just got the spray can I was just concerned about how it would apply vs brushing it on.

Spar Varnish might be better; it's more UV resistant than polyurethane.

Use a very light coat of whatever you end up deciding on. Nothing looks worse than a sanded down set of wood grips globbed with a thick coat of varnish covering the checkering and medallions.

I was thinking 2 coats. Sanding in between always recommended?

I’m gonna suggest tung oil. Especially if there is checkering.

Think ahead to the possible effect of Hoppe's 9, CLP, and other cleaning chemicals. You may want to do some internet research on these interactions before choosing.

I'm doing a set of Desert ironwood grips right now for a single action.

I originally used Minwax Fast Dry Polyurethane (oil base), and carefully brushed it on, 3 coats with 2 days dry time in between and gently sanded between coats.
Well, I just didnt like the "texture" after I was done.

I called a buddy who is a cabinet maker and asked what i did wrong, and he said to get the spray version and it's foolproof.

So I resanded smooth, with most of that brushed on poly still present as a base, and just sprayed the second coat (12 hrs dry time between to make sure it's hardened), and it's a perfect smooth gloss finish I was looking for.

I used Varathane Ultimate Polyurethane oil based spray.
At Home Depot, it has the gold & white label.
Works really well.

I’ve used Birchwood Casey Tru-Oil with excellent results. You have the option of leaving the high gloss finish or after completely dry buffing with 0000 Steal Wool for a satin finish.