best approach to stain and varnish

[Elljames]

I’m trying to refurb this table. So far I’ve sanded the old varnish off and am looking to stain and revarnish a darker tone.

what’s the best approach?

a) Prooftint and then clear carnish

b) A stain and varnish product

The one step stain and varnish seems easier. Is there a catch? Will the finished product be of the same standard?

And do I need to use a sanding sealer first?

It’ll be used as a dining table, so will get daily use and be wiped down often.

Any advice appreciated.

Cheers,

Elliott