Cleaning Small Horns - New to this

Submitted by Angus N. on 04/17/2004 at 15:23. ( cbx@gto.net ) 216.75.187.158

I took a cousin of mine to a farm when we were cutting off some cow horns. He was looking to keep some of them as a "souviner" and I was wondering what was the best way to clean them out and preserve them. I did some looking on the net and didn't come up with anything that really made sense to me. I was told everything from salt to bleach. I was looking if any of you here could lead me in the right direction. They're not really big 6 - 8 inches and not attached to the skulls. I was thinking maybe peroxide to clean the inside then salt to dry them out. After maybe a light sanding to smooth the outside then some kind of clearcoat for a shine and protection. Am I close or way off the mark? I'm not looking to get too pricy on this if I can help it. Thanks in advance for any help.

Return to Beginners Category Menu


Nope, heat them in hot water until the core can be removed.

This response submitted by John C on 04/17/2004 at 16:08. ( ) 66.233.157.155

Then simply wash the interior out with hot soapy water.

They can then be dried and after dried you can polish them using sand paper and finally a very small grit polishing compound.

They can shine perfect by doing so. No clear coat needed.


Thanks. I appreciate it.

This response submitted by Angus N. on 04/17/2004 at 17:14. ( cbx@gto.net ) 24.112.109.131

Anyone want some horn stew? LOL


One more Question

This response submitted by Angus N on 04/18/2004 at 14:36. ( cbx@gto,.net ) 24.102.42.205

I've started heating them in a boiler on the BBQ but was wondering what the best way to remove the core was?


Return to Beginners Category Menu