Painting secondhand pine furniture

Hi Everybody

I am hoping you can give me some advice on how to paint some pine furniture I have bought off gumtree. I know I should strip it and give it a light sand but I really would like some tips on the best products to use and how to apply themfor the best finish.
Would you recommend a water based paint or an oil? Ive heard oil gives a harder finish.
Also, should I use some sort of sealer/wax/laquer? I only want a slight gloss effect,nothing too shiny.

Thanks in advance!!

Libby

ps I plan to buy a sprayer to get an even finish as the legs are shaped and both tables have drawers. Can I get a sprayer that will do furniture and be used to paint a colour bond fence?

There are couple of products that can make this job easy,look in the green shed or your paint shop for ESP this prepares the surface for paint without sanding,the only sanding you need to do is if there is any rough spots or such.Then undercoat,oilbase with the following product added.
The second product is called PENETROL which makes the finish smooth and brush free. This is for use in oil paint only,if you use low sheen emanel it will wear well i'm sure you will not be unhappy with the result.
These products do cost a bit but have a good shelf life and give a great finish with a brush.:2tsup::2tsup: