"another knifemaking help needed"

[TheSp8]

Yes, the boiling will work with antler. That said, it needs to boil a long time and you have to be able to push the tang all the way in with one push. If you stop it will hold tight. I've used this method making a couple of patch knives but have switched to drilling a hole and using epoxy. I've also drilled slightly undersize and boiled the antler then pushed the antler onto the tang as the blade was held in a vise. By the way, boiling antler and horn usually have a smell that most modern folks find less than pleasant.

YMOS,
Tony

[turpin]

By the way, boiling antler and horn usually have a smell that most modern folks find less than pleasant.

YMOS,
Tony

Even drilling releases a stink - And as the bit heats up it softens the antler just like boiling and, if you stop the bit, the antler will tighten up on the bit and you'll have the devil of a time getting it out.

Also, I have read online that dust from drilling or sawing antler can be toxic if inhaled. Can anyone confirm this? I always try to use a dust mask, clean up right afterwards, or do the work outside.