Sanding Antler

[Guest]

I recently acquired some Roe antler to use for a stick handle.

 

Can you sand it? And if so what's best to use, can you sand it entirely smooth?

 

Cheers,

 

Sam

[Highlander]

don't think you'll have much luck sanding antler smooth but why on earth would you anyway!

[bigrob]

You only need to sand where it joins to the hazel - it's very hard - I use a belt sander fixed upside down to a workmate - Bigrob.

[Blacksheep]

Yes it will sand smooth , you can even polish it if you have the patience.

A word of warning though , Antler dust is really nasty stuff and gets everywhere so wear a dust mask and safety glasses

[deeksofdoom]

I recently acquired some Roe antler to use for a stick handle.

 

Can you sand it? And if so what's best to use, can you sand it entirely smooth?

 

Cheers,

 

Sam

 

 

I use a file to get off the big rough bits that are jutting out. Then sand with fine sand paper and finally I use wire wool to smooth and polish or one of those industrial scouring pads.

Edited September 4, 2010 by deeksofdoom

[hobgoblin]

I've used a dremmel as you can slow speed it.File off to start then dremmel till almost smooth then elbow grease&sand/or wet&dry ,just keep at it it'll work!!

[libs]

The smell is VILE!

[fo5ter]

I recommend not breathing the stuff in, not only does it stink but for me it is a surefire way to get a stonking agonisingly painful migraine. Everybody is different but avoid it if you can help it. The last time I worked with antler I had to wear a respirator!

[Ani]

On 15/03/2012 at 21:55, libs said:

The smell is VILE!

If you use cast antlers the smell is not so bad! Antlers have a blood flow until after the rut. Then the flow begins to slow down, when there is no longer a supply the antlers drop off...  no dried blood to rot and smell. I only use cast antlers!