Trad Gang

Main Boards => The Bowyer's Bench => Topic started by: gables on June 02, 2009, 12:47:00 PM

Title: Working with Antler for nocks
Post by: gables on June 02, 2009, 12:47:00 PM
I want to use antler for nock overlays. I assume the pourous center core should be avoided. Do I cut a sliver from the outside of the antler to avoid the pourous center?
Title: Re: Working with Antler for nocks
Post by: bigcountry on June 02, 2009, 01:49:00 PM
Yep, I have done it a few times so far.  My favorite piece is near the base of the antlers, because it will show a lot ridges, and you can tell it cam from an antler.  

Stuff is hard to work with.  I used to sand by hand, but use a bench sander now.  Stinks too.  Here is a set I did on my first bow.

Only tip I have is to feather that one side that goes down the limb before putting on the bow.  Or its about impossible to feather it on teh bow without digging in the limb backing

 (http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/bigcountry_ky/OsageBuildalong/Copy1ofIMG_0002.jpg)
Title: Re: Working with Antler for nocks
Post by: bjansen on June 02, 2009, 06:43:00 PM
Agreed.  I usually cut them from the sides of the antler on the bandsaw, then flatten one surface and glue it up.  

Dont use super glue...the antler will soak it up and it will pop off after it drys.  I use smooth on for mine now as it sands very well...but you can also you can use a 5 minute epoxy.  Good luck...here is my best antler overlay to date.

 (http://i492.photobucket.com/albums/rr287/bjjanse/Hybrid/DSCN0051.jpg)
Title: Re: Working with Antler for nocks
Post by: Steve Kendrot on June 02, 2009, 11:02:00 PM
Is antler fast flight compatible?
Title: Re: Working with Antler for nocks
Post by: bigcountry on June 02, 2009, 11:16:00 PM
I heard yes, than I heard no.  That FF would eat thru it eventually.
Title: Re: Working with Antler for nocks
Post by: BEN on June 06, 2009, 05:07:00 AM
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v336/bgeckle/100_0932.jpg)
Cut piece off the side and used a file and sander to get it shaped---I took too much off though and lost all the brown outer color.