[TheForge] Elk Antler fireplace set

[Grant Marcoux]

Jim:  Elk antler can be a wonderful material....or it can be a nightmare.
This is usually a function of how "pithy" the center of the antler is.  If
you see a lot of porous core in the antler, it will likely fail in use,
unless it is first vacuum stabilized.  This will be especially true in fire
tools that have torsion placed on the antler to handle joinery due to their
length, OR are near heat sources.  Both K&G Supply and Texas Knifemaker's
Supply offer stabilization services for natural materials.

For handles, I would suggest using the largest section of the antler, which
is found nearest the "button" that is the boundary between antler and skull.
Have it stabilized first, then drill it out.

India Stag is arguably the most prized for handles, due to its much less
pithy core.  I still have some, but I use it only for segments of hidden
tang knife handles now.

Grant

Pilgrim Soul Forge
www.grantsforge.com

-----Original Message-----
From: theforge-bounces at mailman.qth.net
[mailto:theforge-bounces at mailman.qth.net]On Behalf Of Jim Guy
Sent: Saturday, November 10, 2007 11:41 AM
To: 'Sponsored by ABANA'
Subject: [TheForge] Elk Antler fireplace set


I'm looking to make a fireplace tool set for my son, and I'd like to
incorporate an Elk antler for the stand.    What should I look out for in my
design?  I would think it would be pretty durable, but most fireplace tool
sets using antlers seem to avoid steel to bone contact.

My original thought was to drill a hole in the burr (the end that connects
to the skull) and epoxy a threaded rod so I can attach it to the base of the
stand, and then hang the tools from the tines on the far end.    The tools
would have a oak leaf and acorn on the end with a bark texture.

Should I instead use the elk antler to hide a shaft in the back and use it
end most branches to lean the fireplace tools against?     Let me know what
does and doesn't work!


Thanks in advance!


Jim Guy
Conyers, Ga.
Jguy1 at ix.netcom.com


_______________________________________________
Manage membership or unsubscribe at:
http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/theforge
theforge mail list group photo site is
http://www.photoaccess.com
Login:  blacksmithblacksmith at hotmail.com
password:  anvil
___________

No virus found in this incoming message.
Checked by AVG Free Edition.
Version: 7.5.503 / Virus Database: 269.15.28/1123 - Release Date: 11/10/2007
3:47 PM

No virus found in this outgoing message.
Checked by AVG Free Edition.
Version: 7.5.503 / Virus Database: 269.15.28/1123 - Release Date: 11/10/2007
3:47 PM