Advice on using stag scales on FB

[phillipsted]

I've made lots of knife scales over the years in a wide range of materials. But I've never worked with stag before. Before I pull the trigger and order a set to try out on my new Spyderco Mule MT15, I thought I would check with folks to see about the "ins-and outs" of working with the material. (I'm referring to real stag here, not plastic resin-based stuff or jigged bone scales)

How do they work? Are they brittle or chippy? Do they carve well?

Any tips would be appreciated.

TedP

 

[Bill DeShivs]

Stag works easily and is very durable. It stinks when you grind it. Wood working tools easily cut it.
Stag should be worked from the rear, so that the bark is left intact.