Deer antler

[jhreed]

I got some deer antler some time ago and ruined it all. could not drill a straight hole etc. I just receive some more from long and far away. Although, not that much. Do not want to make a mess of this lot. Is there someone close to me, 50 miles, that could help an idiot learn how to properly cut and drill deer antler? I have never gotten to the turning part, so may need help there also. I have, I think, all the necessary tools, but just not the talent or experience. Can someone help?
James
p.s. I am talking about pens.

 

[FredP]

not sure if I can help but we sure could give it a shot. I have some we could practice with. I am a bit far though..... let me know if ya wanna give it a shot.

 

[PChristy]

I have some antler coming from Montana soon and I will need some help in learning how to bore and turn them also

 

[sawduster]

first thing I do is go to the belt sander, hold my breath and sand 4 flat sides on the piece
....it's gravy after that :icon_thum
Turns really nice ....even nicer if you're handy with a skew , I wet sand with micro mesh and it doesn't even need a finish :icon_cheers

 

[FredP]

:widea: group lessons?:gar-Bi

 

[ss600r]

Check with any knife maker forums? I know some of those guys use them for knife handles sometimes.

 

[Sealeveler]

There is a stick making site I check out that has some info.http://thestickman.co.uk/forum/index.php?sid=c92bf770c78e39d76a1a1f115c7e177d Tony

 

[Robert Arrowood]

Antler is fun to turn.Once you get it drilled.Just make sure your tools are SHARP.When I drill it I try to get it started on center then freehand it.Feed it up on the bit instead of the bit down into.Try not to get it hot it will crack:BangHead:.And if you get too large of a piece all you will have is marrow when your finished turning.But if that happens slather it with CA and work it in.I use med. it has a longer dry time.If you don't get what you need here check out the IAP site.

 

[Ken Massingale]

first thing I do is go to the belt sander, hold my breath and sand 4 flat sides on the piece
....it's gravy after that :icon_thum
Turns really nice ....even nicer if you're handy with a skew , I wet sand with micro mesh and it doesn't even need a finish :icon_cheers

Yep, hold your breath, it stinks bad!