[yomanbill]

I agree with Mud. Make sure the entire table top can move cross grain to prevent splits and polish the end grain before staining. I might not go to 600 grit, but certainly to 320-400. Good advice either way. Try it on a scrap of your wood to see what works for you.

 

[yomanbill]

Someone else can probably give a more technical answer, but I think the end grain splitting (checking) issue is more prevalent with wood that is still drying. Kiln or air dried wood is pretty stable and is much less subject to this problem. As Jim Frye said, just apply your finish evenly on all sides, provide for seasonal movement, and you should be good.