i was and still am
There are dozens of antlers on ebay that seems to be large enough to use in building cues. But after buying 1/2 dozen racks i found out that very few can be used in cue production. Most are not straight enough, but the biggest problem is, not being solid enough. Some of you might not know the middle part of the antler is very soft, you can cut it with your fingernail.
i am sure not an expert, but from what i have seen and from what i have been told, very few are solid like ivory or walrus tusk. i believe it has to do with the elks diet.
i am in contact with a dealer that cuts 1000's of pounds of elk antler each year. he sends me all pieces that he thinks are straight, and solid enough for my needs. i get 5 - 6 pieces each year.
i have made a few cues using a solid piece of antler for the handle, and love the look. i now have one drying that has the forearm and butt cap made of elk with a wenge handle. the forearm and butt cap are sleeved over the wenge.
chuck starkey
