Rattling with dry antlers....
 

Anyone have info on any readings about using old dried antlers versus a store bought set that supposedly gives off the tone of true antlers still on the deer? When I use my dry ones I tend to hold onto them real tight because if I hold them loosely I know they don't sound right.

RE: Rattling with dry antlers....
 

I assume you are referring to sheds? How old are they?

I use sheds from recent drops and no problems. However ones that have been out awhile and are light in weight due to decomposition are not that effective.

RE: Rattling with dry antlers....
 

Throw them into a bucket of water the day before you plan on hunting.

RE: Rattling with dry antlers....
 

a friend and I saw a viedo on horns getting dry and not sounding good. the guy said on his ranch in Texas they put there horns into a bucket of motor oil for a few days,then take them out and wash real good with soap and water,makes them sound like new.
My friend did it and his perked up and sounded good.

mine I always put them into the closet untill the next year,they are about 10 years old and still sound good.( rattled in 5 good deer last year.)

I am not a hunter I am a whitetail population reduction specialest

remember keep your back to the sun, your knife sharp, and your powder dry.

RE: Rattling with dry antlers....
 

Mt take is this, if rattle bags can work, about any old dropped antlers should work. I personally don't like rattle bags, but have seen them work, ON TV. I use dropped mule deer antlers for my rattling, they aren't old enough to be white like some bleached antlers can be, but white tail can't tell the difference anyways.