Lutan F PH

[nts2010]

M20  , I must agree with Aubrey on the issue of turning the pickle into the tan ,  when ever possible ( before I developed a mould issue in the pickle ) I would reuse my pickle as much as possible until it was too dirty , however I always started fresh with the tanning floats .  I run slightly different pH levels to those discussed , however the principle is the same , pickle 1.5 ~ 2.2 , tan initially 3 ~ 3.5 , this will drop when the skins are added due to the pickle held in the skin , then basify to 5 ish . Length of time also varies , I allow about 4 days for sambar chital (axis) hog deer & rusa, 3 for fallow & red and 24 ~ 48 hrs for fox skins . and now ALWAYS check the pH of the SKIN after basification not the solution . I allow upto 6 hrs for the basification step as I"ve been bit on the backside before . cheers  & merry xmas  Peter

[muscle20]

 nts2010     Yes I also agree with Aubrey,I am fully aware of old shavers objectives, I put this method in for a alternative for bucket tanning, if anybody wishes to dress a few hides and the simplicity of using a one bath process if you choose, as I have experimented with this simple process and there is no difference in the out come and quality of the skins for taxidermy or other, just a one bath alternative that works!  If you have mold problems I would suggest that you agitate your pickle continually, or at least freq. as possible and you will find it will do a better job, as well and will get rid of your mold buildup, also keep your pickles clean.   Merry xmas.