Homemade stag or antler grips

[Paperpunchr]

Anyone have experience working with antler grips? I'm starting to make a set of elk grips for a Ruger Mk III and haven't worked with antler material before...or wood for that matter. Would appreciate any pointers.

Doug Huggins

 

[hoghunting]

Paper,
This might not be much help, but one of my uses for my lathe is to turn writing pens. I have used different woods and deer antlers. As far as turning and shaping, the antlers aren't any different than the wood. But get ready because the antlers have an obnoxious, foul odor when being cut or sanded. I don't know if it is the dust, but do they ever stink!

 

[CSA 357]

i would like some help with this also i have a elk horn that should make a few sets of grips, csa

 

[Valkman]

I don't know how you're shaping it but when grinding knife handles down new belts and slower speeds are needed so as not to burn the material. Wear breathing protection! Horns, bones and alot of woods are plain nasty, stink, and will screw up your lungs. Now have fun!