Thread: Scales in horn

Wow
I wasn't expecting that incredible outcome looking at those raw chunks.
They are absolutely breathtaking.

Originally Posted by Undream

I do my drilling midway through profiling but before shaping, while the scales are still totally flat, and taped together. If you do the drilling and things are ever so slightly off, you still have time to correct it during profiling. I guess I don't understand the reason for the Angle iron UKRob - why don't you just use the table of your drill press?

When drilling Horn, I always use a hardwood backer to prevent delamination. Using sharp bits is also very important, as is drilling very slowly.

The idea of the angle is that you attach one side of the scale on top and the other underneath - making sure that they line up. You are then assured of having a hole that is 90 degrees in both vertical and horizontal planes.

Of course this is only necessary because the antler was uneven, therefore trying to drill with them taped together - even using the pillar drill meant using judgement because they could rock front to back and side to side.

Originally Posted by JimmyHAD

FWIW, great job on those, but you mentioned 'taking down the high spots' on the outside. I love pocket knives/razors with stag horn scales that are those knobby rough old 'burnt' stag, that haven't been smoothed out on the outside. YMMV.

I know what you mean Jimmy. I tried to keep as much as possible but the pile side was quite deformed compared to the show side and, even now, they are at the limit in terms of balance. I guess that's one of the reasons we don't get to see many examples of antler - you really need to select a chunk that is pretty even and straight along the length even though it may have a nice curve. Kind of like a banana.

Excellent job, Rob - well done!

Regards,
Neil

I see! Thank you for the explanation UKRob.

I have never liked antler scales before these, it was like.....someone already said: the balance between the core and the bark is exquisite.....really beautiful work. Thanks for posting.

Originally Posted by UKRob

I worked on this since the first post and learned quite a lot along the way. Here's how they turned out.

Nice! Very Nice!: Exactly what I've envisioned for antler scales here in the States!

If you make another set, a pictorial would be very much appreciated!