Ok, I ordered the Van Dykes all inclusive pheasant mounting kit. I thought it would come with everything I would need. Upon watching the video, I noticed the instructor flesh the bird with what looks like a round wire brush afixed to a grinder. Not sure what the thing is called. Anyway, I sure don't have that machine! How is a rookie supposed to remove the fat and other flesh from the skin?
Also, do you have to use clay in the bird's skull? The kit did not come with clay either!
Thanks,
Dr. Mark Hale
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You can use a small detail wire brush (toothbrush size) to remove the fat. Your kit should have come with clay or an artificial head. If you need the clay now you can get some a any hobby store or walmart. If you can afford the wait, Just give Van Dykes a call and tell them the kit didn't come with any clay. Have a good one! Joe
with a pair of scissors,with your fingers behind the skin. It takes a while but it will work
If you're new to the game, a motorized wire wheel on a bird skin is not something you want to mess with just yet. If the wheel catches the skin it'll tear it to shreds. Like mopar said, just take your time and remove fat and flesh by hand. Rub borax into the areas that you removed the fat from and it will absorb even more and also make it easier to grab onto. Those wire wheels are great, especially on waterfowl, but I would stay away from them for now.