Question for guys that have used antler tip overlays

[buckeyebowhunter]

For those of you that have used antler on tip overlays, how are you able to get them sanded flat enough to glue onto the limb tip? I have wanted to try antler tips for awhile. Thanks!

[Mo_coon-catcher]

I use my Ferrier rasp to get them roughly flat then I’ll rub them around on a piece of 60-100grit sandpaper on a flat board until it’s flat. Then I wrap the overlay with sand paper to flatten the spot o want the overlay. It works well for me, Atleast on wood bows.

Kyle

[Kirkll]

i just use 80 grit self adhesive sand paper on a block of wood to get the flat spot...

But wait.... There is an important part about getting those antler tip overlays to stay put. The antler material is very porous, and just soaks up glue. It's very important to seal that flat surface well before you try and glue them to glass or wood.  You can use epoxy, or thick super glue to do it. then sand again before installation.

I had a lot of antler tip overlays pop off until i figured that one out...  Food for thought.   Kirk

[buckeyebowhunter]

Thanks Kirk, I know about the issue with the pores was just trying to wrap my head around getting them flat enough for a good glue joint.