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Mink

Discussion in 'Beginners' started by 3.14159, Jan 16, 2015.

  1. Jan 16, 2015 #1
    3.14159

    3.14159 New Member

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    I recently purchased a couple of mink (will post seller review after skinning this weekend). I have mostly just worked with squirrels for my skinning and mounting practice and I've helped/watched my dad when he works. Is there anything extremely important that I need to know about these critters? Do they have kind of tough skins like squirrels, can you open their ears, and is it better to pickel and tan as opposed to dry preserve?

    Thank you!

    Kal
     
  3. Jan 16, 2015 #2
    Bruce_Rittel

    Bruce_Rittel Consultant Services

    965
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    Raynham MA 02767
    I personally like them much better than Squirrels. They are heavier (thicker skinned), flesh easier, and tan well. Just remember to flesh them clean by fleshing them from the Tail towards the head. Always go with the lay of the fur. If you go the other way, against the lay, you may make cuts or holes. You can open and turn out their ears!

    I'd Pickle and Tan them. They should Tan well - use a Pickle and a paint-on Tan like McKenzie Tan sells or use the one I put together from TASCO called KWIK-N-EZE. They both work and should do a good job. Just follow their instructions.
     

  5. Jan 17, 2015 #3
    3.14159

    3.14159 New Member

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    Thank you so much!
     
  6. Jan 17, 2015 #4
    rasorbackq

    rasorbackq Member

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    Just outside Halifax Nova Scotia Canada
    Keep in mind they are the same family as a skunk.
    So they have gllands
     
  7. Jan 18, 2015 #5
    3.14159

    3.14159 New Member

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    One of my coworkers used to trap and he was telling me that yesterday because I told him I wanted a skunk :) I think this will be one of those thinga that I have to remind myself to slow down and watch what I'm doing. Hypothetically, though, of I were to get minked, how do I get the smell off?

    Thanks!
     
  8. Jan 26, 2015 #6
    OutbackJack

    OutbackJack Member

    768
    0
    PA
    I would recommend skinning these little critters outside! I did one and it wasn't bad at all. Needless to say I did the next one in my shop and busted a gland or two. Boy did it stink up the shop. you can use a peroxide mix that will take away the smell. Its on here just search for skunk spray related topics.