Jason
I can assure you that Red Lead, and White lead used to frequently be used on wood. I have now found a source - see quote from the website below. It also used to be used on wooden rainwater gutters - made them last for many years. I have stripped the paint form many old doors and gates and frequently found the red lead primer under it.
Modern primers go nowhere near matching the preservative qualities of red lead.
Thanks anyway.
Richard
Real™ LEAD PAINT
For restoration and maintenance of historic textures and finishes on Grade I and II* Listed Buildings and Scheduled Ancient Monuments, genuine lead paints are unsurpassed for permeability, long term protection and beauty. We hold an archive of historic formulae dating back to antiquity, by which we can make and supply historic tints and colours using the ingredients and manufacture methods recommended by tradition. We also manufacture stack made white lead to order so that the historic texture and finish of important historic rooms, furniture and works of art can also be restored. Restricted by Law - subject to declaration on a special form (which we can supply) and confirmation of listing by English Heritage, Historic Scotland or Cadw, prior to use.
Drying time: Touch dry +/- 72 hours.
Coverage: +/- 12 square metres per litre.
Containers: 1 litre and 2.5 litre tins.