After reading the archives, I will probably try the microwave method of removing the horns, but if I have to put them in water to do it, do I have to worry about the horns coming apart like bison horns since they are made of hair?
Return to Gamehead Taxidermy Category Menu
Carefull you can EASILY cause a boil or blister on the horn from microwaving. You're wife will also hate you from the smell.
I found maceration the best way to release the horns. Just put the skull into a bucket of water and give it a week or two. Check every other day and see if they are starting to come of. Antelope horns remove rather quickly and are not as stuborn like sheep horns. if you don't leave the horns in the water for months on end they won't be hurt by it.
Antelope horns are just like antelope HAIR. They almost fall out just as easily. Just put them in a plastic bag and tie the end tight. In 3 or 4 days, you should be able to grab them and with a simple twist, they should just pop off. I'd be scared the water would separate the hair near the bases that actually forms the horn
That's what I was afraid of. I once had an experience where buffalo horns had pieces curl and peel back. I don't want that to happen here.
I just step on the skull plate, grab the horns, and twist and pull. It kills my aching back, but they come off nice after a couple days.