Antler as guard ???

[brokenspearpoint]

I am curious about the use of a slice of antler to be used as a guard. I was working on a project for a pig sticking knife/dagger for a fellow and I did not have a guard that I liked so I just used a 3/8" slice of an Axis deer antler. The dagger did not have to be anything special so it wasn't a big deal, but I kinda liked the way it turned out, and am thinking of using it again. Do you see any problems and/or difficulties with the function of the antler. Probably would have to be thicker than a normal guard I would think. Sorry for no pictures as I have already turned it over to the client.

 

[Robert Mayo]

I have used antler tips for guards on a few over the years for bird and trout knives with antler handles and they have held up well. It is plenty strong to stop your hand from sliding down the knife and was very pleasing to the eye.

Bob

 

[steelshaper]

Sure plenty of scandi type knives are made with antler for the guard. The crown from an elk antler can be sliced up to get some really nice and solid pieces that are great for this.