First, thanks to all who respond with help! I got a nice 10 point that I would like to make a Euro mount. I've heard conflicting advice on how best to get the flesh off the skull. Is there a BEST method or do I just pick one and go for it? How do you remove the brain without damaging the skull? Where do you get 40 peroxide? Its winter now, so soaking outside is not feasable. Will boiling in my turkey fryer be faster? Will it affect the bones? Can I add some carrots and celery and serve it to my mother-in-law?\
Thanks!
John
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The BEst method is subjective, I dont think there is anyway, that an objective opinion can be rendered on Euro-mounts.
Go to hidetanning.net. There is an article on skullcleaning you might find helpful.
One thing to avoid like the plague is boiling! Simmering and boiling are differnet and if done properly - simmering can be effective - but DON'T BOIL!
Beyond that, like John said - there are a lot of methods to use, warm water macertaion, cold water maceration, manure maceration, dermestid beetle consumption, bag maceration, maggot comsumption, enzymatic solutions, acid baths... the list goes on.
I've used all these methods at one time or another and I lean heavily towards the water macerations. I find they obtain the cleanest skulls, minimal risk to the bones, zero potential loss of teeth etc (as long as you don't dump out your water without looking for teeth etc first). They aren't the fastest methods however - so you have to decide whats important to you. You can also combine techniques. One of the consumption methods followed by a maceration etc is a compromise between thorough cleaning and speed.
As long as you avoid boiling - you can't go far wrong.
btw - Piglets articles on skull clenaing are really well done - I just finished reading them... way to go SP - you rock! 8)
I'm new to this, but in all methods I have found it helps to get as much of the flesh off yourself as possible before you start. I use a scalpel and am able to get a lot off to begin with. Secondly, I use a coat hanger to scramble the brains and then they pretty much leak out or can be hosed out with water. I get my 40% at a beauty supply store. You need a beautician's license to purchase anything above 30%, but they sell it to me because they know what I use it for. Hope this helps. SD
if you don't have a beetle colony. Although it is cold now, simply add a small packet of yeast to your water to jumpstart the bacteria growth. It may take a couple of months but the results are well worth it. As Raven stated, do not boil or you'll end up with a chalky, flaky mess. Good luck.
HH