Buffalo horn with a router

[t1mpani]

Generally I use my routing table for initial shaping of scales out of wood or micarta, as it helps me keep my tapers even with each other (and doesn't eat up so many belts when removing large amounts of material). I've picked up a couple pieces of buffalo horn to try working with, but must admit I'm a little nervous approaching the 20,000 rpm bit with an unfamiliar material. Any experience or notes about working with horn as opposed to, say, ironwood? I only bring that one up as I've worked with it a good bit, and it's a hard, natural material.

 

[Gossman Knives]

Buff horn is a pain to work. It stinks bad too. Make sure you wear a respirator. I recommend working the material slow. It splits easily.Your best bet is to stick with the sander. Most that I used is bowed a bit. I sand it flat so it fits the tang squarely.
Scott

 

[t1mpani]

Thanks Scott---sounds like a simple coffin-handle shape may be the way to go.

Warren