question for bow makers

[bbassi]

I've got an old bow that I'm refinishing and I'd like  to add some antler to the front (back)of the handle so I can add finger grooves. My question is, how do you bend the antler to conform to the shape of the riser before you glue it up? The pieces I have are basically straight, but the riser isn't close. I'd like to start with about 1/4 to 3/8" thick piece, but can't see how it will bend that much on it's own.

[Mark Baker]

You could try boiling the antler....it may take quite a bit to get there,  and it may  bend Okay  for you.  I think if it were me, though, I would find  a  piece with  a similar radius,  then  slice a piece the size you need, and carefully "mate" it to  the bow...then glue.

[Sixby]

You pretty much have to grind the antler to fit the riser