You guys have been a tremendous source of help and support, if any of you have the time to answer a couple questions I'd appreciate it. I've been cranking out some blades on my coal forge (mostly files but some that started life as springs as well) and seem to be getting ok. My fervor has yet to be abated, though hand surgery for torn tendon and carpal tunnel hit the pause button for a bit. I have made a couple handles from antler, and I used 2-part epoxy to seal the spongy side and affix them to the tang (along with pins), and sprayed urethane around the edges to seal it off. Those haven't seen a ton of use yet, but seem to be ok.
My question revolves around stabilizing them. Does a guy need to stabilize them for them to be any good? I realize it'd make them more solid, and I'd expect longer lasting, and I plan on building a vacuum and getting set up to do it eventually, but would like to turn out a few more before I get around to dropping the coin on it. I'd rather get a bigger belt grinder and gas forge first. Yeah I could buy stabilized wood and and antler, but I'd rather make a handle from antler that I shot/found or for a buddy from an antler that holds some personal connection to them.
Thanks,
Jason
