Restore beat up elk rack?

[T-Dozzer]

So the wife wants a decorating project using antlers and I graciously donated a weathered, bleached elk rack that's been hanging outside for years. I know there are a few threads about staining, but I'm wondering  if these are too porous. Would sealer work before staining?
Sometime back there was good thread about this topic on an old set of moose antlers, but I can't find it. I think the op got his looking good again and they were rough.
Any suggestions on products & process?

[WA1232]

http://hunting-washington.com/smf/index.php/topic,140992.0.html

I think this may be the thread you were talking about. Good luck!

[DIYARCHERYJUNKIE]

I think antler magic was the name of a good product for restoring antlers.

[boneaddict]

How chaulky are they?

[T-Dozzer]

Thanks Wa1232.
Ill look into the antler magic or shoot rick a message.
They are not super chalky. Around  bases are worst part.

[boneaddict]

The minwax gel method  would probably work too if they aren't too chaulky.   I haven't used the antler magic.  I'll see if I can find the link to that on here.

[T-Dozzer]

How does the min wax gel method work?

[jackmaster]

I have used min wax wood stain, I think I used red mahogany and it turned out pretty sweet actually

[T-Dozzer]

Any other special prep besides a sealer (since mine are dry) ie. special cleaner or scuff/sand?

[BOWHUNTER45]

Those bleached out horns usually stain up rather nicely ...the stain goes on evenly and you do not get light and dark spots ..all those methods will work but I like the horn stain you get from the taxi suppliers ..

[boneaddict]

You use the gel. (antique walnut or something like that)  Get yourself a where you have a bunch of mud.   smear the gel stain on thick, and pack it in mud.  Wet enough to pack and stick but not dripping.  When the mud dries steel wool it off.  It doesn't look "painted on" this way.   Makes it blend in good with the bone.   Its the most natural look I have found.

[DIYARCHERYJUNKIE]

that sounds like a good method bone.  I will have to try it.

[boneaddict]

I wish I could remember exactly what color.   Aged Oak maybe and not antique Walnut.......