Elk Horn Blanks

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Daniel2025

Daniel2025

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Joined
Feb 6, 2025
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33
Location
Harris County Texas
I have a neighbor asking me about making a pen or two using some Elk horn that he has.
I've never done it, whats the pro's & con's? What drill bits work best? I wont attempt it if it requires any special tooling.
Thanks for any advice

DAVE
 
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So, it's going to smell...alot when turning. You are going to have to pick pieces that are smaller in diameter, so that you can have some "bark" in the final product. As far as drilling, any bit will work, but super slow and don't allow any heat build up. Some people stabilize the center with ca glue. You could probably save some cash by using a smaller drill bit than needed to get out the bulk of the waste, then use the ca to stabilize the inner portion and drill to final size. Use an ultra thin ca and don't use accelerator. Let it dry naturally. You will probably need to let the ca sit and dry for 24 hours or so before drilling.

As far as turning, you will probably have better luck with carbide, than traditional tooling. If you use traditional tools, you will have to sharpen a lot.
 
Daniel2025 said:
I have a neighbor asking me about making a pen or two using some Elk horn that he has.
I've never done it, whats the pro's & con's? What drill bits work best? I wont attempt it if it requires any special tooling.
Thanks for any advice

DAVE
Click to expand...
No real difference than any other antler. No special tools needed. Be sure to at least wear a dust particle mask. If you are working with a large piece and want to leave some of the "bark" of the antler, be sure to take tor time when marking for center before drilling. I have gotten up to 3 blanks out of the same piece of elk antler because of how large the main parts can be and sure more could have been had from a larger diameter section. Have fun!
 
Thanks for all the info guys, I think I'll pass on this project. I have enough to keep me busy. I'll stick to the pens I enjoy. I had a hunch it would smell bad, that alone is no go for me. Appreciate the advice, thats what a good forum is all about

Dave
 
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