I was just wondering whether the ear cartilage should be removed before or after tanning the hide? Any help would be appreciated.
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It doesn't matter, but I do it after. The hide is tougher and I can be a little less gentle.
I remove it after tanning. I am not sure that it is even possible to remove before tanning. It is really stuck to the thin inner skin and it will tear the ear when trying to peel it. Just rehydrate it first.
I remove all of mine when i cape the deer out. I have done it after pickle and after tan and it comes out the best when the deer is fresh. If possible before it ever gets frozen. Start by seperating it on the top of the ear down by the butt where it is thick. I take a small flat steel tool to get it started and then just work your fingers in there and start peeling it loose. Once i get it started i cut the cartilage all the way across the ear and pull it off in 2 pcs. Nothing to it.
Thanks for the advise. I appreciate it. The time everyone takes around here to help out those of us without a clue is great:)