New to stabilizing

[Andrew Marshall]

I have seen that some people turn their wood round before stabilizing, to save resin, I'm assuming. My question is, is it possible to pre drill and possibly even rough turn before stabilizing to save as much resin as possible? 

[Henry H]

Yes... though it is advisable to drill smaller than final bore in case the wood moves a bit.

[BigB]

I wouldn't pre drill at all.  Yes, it will save a little money, but it will create all sorts of headaches later.  That hole doesn't stay true.  The wood may bend and twist a little in the stabilizing & curing process.  Try chasing a 1/2" diameter hole that oblong and twisted, and turning that into a true 5/8" diameter hole.  It's not easy to do and you will fight it doing it.  Just not worth it in my opinion.


Brian

[David @ Mad Duck Game Calls]

You could cut the corners off to save a little resin with out having to drill a hole.


David

[Andrew Marshall]

Thanks for the input guys, I just ordered a gal of cactus juice form turn tex the other day so I should be here in the next couple of days. I'm pretty excited about giving stabilizing a shot. The process seemed pretty straight forward but I will let y'all know if i have anymore questions.
Thanks guys,
Andrew

[Wayne at Winzer Game Calls]

Andrew,
I agree with BigB on this. I have pre-drilled and or rough shaped and sometimes it distorts the wood. My first thoughts was since the vacuum is equal all the way around there shouldn't be a problem. But after discussing with others and analyzing, it may the difference in wood density or moisture levels in sections of the wood. I really not sure but I had rather waste a little juice than loose the blank and the juice I put in it if it distorts. That being said, rounding off a blank a little oversize can safe you some juice and I haven't had a issue with doing that. Just some of my experiences.
Hope this helps,
Wayne