My husband is a knife maker and was given yak horn to use for handle. The smells really bad. Is there way remove the odor?

There are several methods you can try to remove the odor from the yak horn:

1. Baking Soda:

- Make a paste by mixing baking soda with water.

- Apply the paste to the horn and let it sit for several hours or overnight.

- Rinse the horn thoroughly with water and let it dry.

2. Vinegar:

- Soak the horn in a solution of equal parts vinegar and water for several hours or overnight.

- Rinse the horn thoroughly with water and let it dry.

3. Ammonia:

- Mix 1 part ammonia with 10 parts water.

- Soak the horn in the solution for several hours or overnight.

- Rinse the horn thoroughly with water and let it dry.

4. Activated Charcoal:

- Place the horn in a container with activated charcoal.

- Leave it for several days or weeks, allowing the charcoal to absorb the odor.

- Remove the horn from the container and let it air out.

5. Essential Oils:

- Dilute a few drops of essential oil (such as lavender, tea tree, or peppermint) in water.

- Apply the mixture to the horn and let it dry.

6. Sun Exposure:

- Place the horn in direct sunlight for several hours.

- The UV rays from the sun can help to break down and dissipate the odor.

7. Sanding:

- Sand the horn to remove the outermost layer that contains the odor.

- Make sure to wear a dust mask and work in a well-ventilated area.

Remember to test any of these methods on a small, inconspicuous area of the horn before applying them to the entire surface. Some materials may react differently to certain treatments, and it's important to ensure that the method you choose does not damage or alter the horn. Additionally, ensure the horn is completely dry before using it to avoid any potential issues with the finished knife handle.