Vlad, The article was good but it has many generalizations in it. If you have an interest in walnut stocking search for more articles to get a wider range of info about the subject.

Most top level stockmakers won't want to use steamed wood i believe. Long ago Geoff Slee told me not to use steamed wood for gunstocks. It apparently adversely affects the colour and workability of the wood too much for gunstocks.

Most high level custom stockmakers also won't want to use kiln processed wood. Apparently not many kiln operators can be trusted to run the kiln perfectly to suit walnut gunstocks.

The wood cutters that strictly air dry the wood use coats of wax or sealers to control the early release of moisture in the slabs of wood. I'm not an expert on it however, guys like Roger Vardy and Gordon Cusens know a lot more than me about processing walnut.

Regards,
GABE93