How to Care for Buffalo Horns

Caring for buffalo (or the wild versions called bison) means polishing and oiling the horns to prevent cracking and decay. Buffalo horns are taken from the animal during slaughter or hiding and are sold as souvenirs or trophy mounts. It is essential to the longevity of the horns to keep them clean and oiled. If you live in a dry and hot environment, oil the horns between two and three times a year. More humid environments require an oiling once a year.

Things You'll Need

  • Chamois clothes
  • Linseed oil
  • Car wax
  • Air canister
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Instructions

    • 1

      Wipe the horns of dust and loose debris with a cloth.

    • 2

      Pour some linseed oil onto a cloth and use the oil-soaked cloth to coat both horns. Let the oil soak into the cracks and dry areas of the horns and allow to dry.

    • 3

      Apply car wax to the buffalo horns with your fingertips. With a circular motion, rub the wax into the horns using a chamois cloth. Take care not to glob too much wax onto the horns, especially into cracks. Leave a small layer of wax on the horns.

    • 4

      Blow the horns with the compressed air after the waxing to get rid of any dust that may have settled during the cleaning process.