I understand that rug tans are generally dry tans and result in softer leather, which your generally want for a rug, but can you use a hide tanned originally for a rug instead for a shoulder mount? or are you better off to use a wet tanned hide for the shoulder mount? I want to start my first bear rug and also am planning my first bear shoulder mount...do I get both hides tanned the same way?
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But the dry tanned hide will have to be RE-hydrated where the wet tan usually doesn't need that. Dry tans have to be stretched a great deal compared to the wet tans, but before the wet tan came along, that was the only way there was. Wet tans are another example of the improvements in the industry that make for a more pliable skin and realistic mount using modern methods and materials. A wet tan does need to be washed usually to eliminate the extra oils on the hide surface. Failure to remove them can cause drumming of the skin during mounting.