Drying Whole Horns

[anonymous76]

I have already searched for this topic in this forum with no luck. Given the recent post about drying wood, I thought it might be a good idea to bring this up. Has anyone experience drying whole horns (sheep, water buffalo, etc.)? How do you know when it is dry enough to use or stabilize? Is drying even needed? I have a wood moisture meter, but it doesn't seem to work on horn. I am worried that if horn isn't adequately dry it will warp, shrink and possibly split or crack with time. Any suggestions will be appreciated.

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

IIRC, most folks dry horn and antler a year. Regardless, horn will warp and move as it ages depending on climate and use conditions.
For the best answer, contact Culpepper.