Cow horns

whitey21

whitey21

New member
I have a skull with two horns. The skull is messed up a little so I thought I might try my hand at making a horn howler. I was curious if someone knew of a good step process or any advice (sandpaper grit, finish, and size). Not trying to make these to sell or anything.

Thanks guys
 
lots and lots of sanding I start with 80 and end with 500 and then for the finish lots of buffing
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Originally Posted By: Bees OBrienthen that takes the satisfaction out of it and not to mention the fun of that wonderful smell

Imagine the smell of a burning coyote, that's pretty close.
 
Originally Posted By: Willowcreeklots and lots of sanding
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Amen to that!!
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And don't be in a hurry to get done.

My method...if the horn is not peeling & "scaly"...

I start with 60gr sandpaper, on a sanding block, to take off the top layer of crud.

Since I use "pre-made" toneboards, at this point, I determine the appropriate place to cut the tip off.
I then drill the hole for the toneboard.
I use a regular variable speed 3/8" drill, and "spade" type wood-boring bits.
Most of the toneboards I use require a 5/8" mounting hole.
However, so that I don't over-drill the holes, I use a 9/16" bit. Then use a round file to open the hole to the proper size.
The reason I do this before doing anymore sanding, is in case I accidently break the horn during drilling.
No sense wasting more time than necessary. Haha

(Steps 1-3 can be done with a Dremel tool if you have one.)

Once that is done, I no longer use the sanding block, only backing the paper w/my hand, so I can "curl" around the horn.

From this point I use a Karate Kid "wax on/wax off" or "swirling" motion while I sand.
I feel it's better for getting rid of any ridges, or high spots, plus it creates a nice finish...
60 gr
100 gr
150gr
220gr

At this point, if I'm putting a lanyard groove, or any engraving on the horn, I do it.
Then...
500gr

If I've done any engraving, & plan to paint it, I do that now, & let it cure good.
Then...
1000gr
1200gr
1500gr
2000gr
Then buffing.

After that, some guys do nothing more; some guys buff with wax.
Personally, at this point, I put a layer of clearcoat on, inside/out, and let it cure. I repeat the process until I have a total of 6 layers on.

 
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