...I have less trouble mounting a deer shoulder mount than I have trying to get the skin and hoof off of the leg bone. I believe if I had started with the deer foot thermometer project I would have never went any futher.
I just successfully removed my first one intact after about six attempts. But I had to put it in a vice and pop the two end knuckle bones loose to do it. There must be an easier way.
Just venting but any good advice will be greatfully appreciated.
Thanks, John
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John, your life would get much easier if you'll invest in a pair of vineyard or grape or curved blade shears sold by Research Mannikins. Split the back skin of the leg down to between the toes careful not to cut the interdigital gland. With a sharp scalpel, clear it as much as you can and then insert the curved blades, tips inward, down inside the skin making small snips as you go. Push the hoof up against the tip and you'll feel the tips cutting bone and cartilage. Move it around until you clip the tendons and ligaments that hold that toe in place and then bend the hoof backwards. It will snap right off. Then repeat on the other side. Piece of cake.