Antler?

So, a member here (shooter74743) has sent me some antler to try my hand at. I am wondering, does antler require any sort of special finishing? I would imagine it is much like an ivory tusk or bone, and just inherently water proof/resistant. But I don't have any experience with it or really know anything about it.

Any ideas?

Thanks
Drew

I would finish it with a neatsfoot oil soak, then perhaps a light sanding from 1K -2K, then use a fine abrasive compound to bring out a mirror shine, jeweller's ruby compound is popular, but on horn and ivory I have used an auto scratch remover that works a charm on natural materials. Rubbish on car paintwork though!

Did you get them already? Priority mail is fast...

I don't have them yet, I'm just trying to get myself prepared for when I do get them. I think I'm going to need to pick up a slightly better saw, as I'm currently using the smallest cheapest one made. Luckily the art store where I get my walnut and brass has a nice heavy duty one (they also do framework).

Shooter,

Just to let you know, I have some pretty good ideas I want to try. Let me know if you would prefer traditional scales, of if you would like some crazy stuff if I can figure it out.

Drew

Go with your ideas, set your mind free. As long as the scales are useable, let that young mind free. Go traditional on the walnut set if you would...I have a home for them with my junktique haul.

I decided to cut on another set of antlers (I have several sets waiting for projects) here at home and quickly went to a hacksaw, that stuff is hard & tough.

Good to know. I can definitely do traditional walnut. In my mind it is a pretty traditional wood, so it seems only fitting.

I would think that the finish on antler would depend on how smooth a finish you want on it. Wouldn't too much buffing take away from the natural look of the antler? These are some of the considerations I've had this past week while trying to decide what type of scales I want to use for my resto.

my .02


Mike

I have to say, if it is for first attempt, try something cheap. I use walnut they sell at an art store in town, precut to 1/8". It is only $5 for enough for 4 or 5 sets of scales, so if I ruin some it doesn't break the bank.

I've started to toy with antler as well. BUt I took the lazy route and just ordered a few sets of staghorn scales from Olivia! :-)