Hello! I recently bought an older house that has great kitchen cabinets made of wood veneer. They are in good shape overall and I'd like to keep them, however the finish is showing its age. I understand that I am able to strip and restain them a darker color. Which products are recommended for stripping? Will this take off both the finish and the original stain? After stripping am I able to start staining or is there more preparation required? What types of finishes are recommended following staining? Thanks in advance!

I've never stained an exterior door before, have always painted but have purchased two new oak ones and B.O.T.H. wants them stained. On is the entry from the garage so it's not in the elements but the other is the main front entrance and though covered by a narrow entry area will get some sun and water. I live in NE Louisiana so extreme cold not a problem but high humidity and temperatures are normal. I've considered MinWax Interior/Exterior Gel Stain followed by their Helmsman Spar Urethane which is working great for the oak wet bar I did but that's not outside. Any better ideas???