Aqua-Fortis to Color/Age Powder Horns?

[Mickc01]

Before posting a question that’s already been answered a bunch of times, I did a search and found plenty of references to Aqua-Fortis being used to color horns but I found no suggestions of how to do it. Would one of you’all that has tried this give me (and the other readers) an idea of the technique used and how well it works? I’d be extremely grateful....Thanks a bunch! Mick

 

[Treerat]

Tried it on my last one. I applied it just like on a rifle stock. Swap on, let dry and blush with heat. I didn't get a lot of color that way just toned it down a little and yellowed the white area some. From now on I will probably just use AQ for wood.

 

[Capt. Jas.]

I de-grease, apply the solution, let dry and apply heat. Careful not to burn the horn but it does take some time to get the color to come out without scorching.

 

[LaBonte]

Before adding the AF try adding a coat or two of strong black tea or some walnut dye - the tannins in the tea or dye will react with the AF and give you a darker/quicker color..but as always experiment first on scrap.......

 

[Rifleman1776]

Before adding the AF try adding a coat or two of strong black tea or some walnut dye - the tannins in the tea or dye will react with the AF and give you a darker/quicker color..but as always experiment first on scrap.......

Or just rub with some Neatsfoot oil. Easy, works.

 

[wattlebuster]

Rifleman that is a new one on me. I will have to give it a try :thumbsup:

 

[Mickc01]

Thanks for all the great info, guys! I have some Aqua-Fortis but think I'll try the neatfoot oil suggestion first.

And James, that is an absolutely beautiful horn, great job. :hatsoff: