Actually, nothing is necessary.  Typically in nature, a shed antler will last a LONG time without anything as a "sealer".  Most of the time antlers get eaten up by various rodents for it's calcium content before they rot away.

  I rarely use any type of "sealer" or "coating" such as varnish, poly, etc. on natural handle material.  A good coat of quality "wax" with a high carnauba content is my typical "final finish".   My personal favorite is Mother's Carnauba Cleaner/Wax.... about $15 a can at Walmart.     

thank you for your response. after posting my question I tried some linseed oil on a scrap piece and realized it wasn't soaking in and I began to think I might have asked a foolish question but you don't if you don't ask. Thanks again for the help

The only "foolish question"  is the one not asked! 😉   

  The vast majority of natural handle material that does need to be sealed, I either use some that has been stabilized, or send my own stuff out to be stabilized. 

 You see a lot of folks trying to do their own stabilizing, but take it from a guy who tried doin it the "home brew" way for 3+ years..... you are WAY AHEAD in time and money if you just send it to the professionals....who have the professional level equipment, and the professional level chemicals.  Some of the best I've used is by http://www.kandgstabilizing.com      

I am an apprentice and have only made two antler handles but have seen others use leather die to darken the antler. Especially the grind areas. Hope it helps.

Potassium permanganate can darken the white antler too. But be careful and use gloves, because it will dye your skin too.

Tea, try soaking it in tea