Quick Answer
You can cape a deer by yourself effectively, but it requires patience, the right tools, and a clear understanding of the caping process. Practice and experience will help you develop the necessary skills to achieve a professional-looking result. With the right preparation, you can successfully cape a deer and prepare it for a taxidermist.
Preparing for Caping
Before you begin, make sure you have the necessary tools and equipment, including a sharp skinning knife, a caping saw, and a pair of deer skinning shears. Wear protective gear, such as gloves and safety glasses, to prevent accidents and injuries. It’s also essential to have a clear, well-lit workspace and a good supply of cold water for skinning and preserving the cape.
The Caping Process
To cap a deer, start by loosening the skin on the neck, working your way down to the shoulder area. Use your skinning knife to make a shallow cut along the spine, from the base of the neck to the beginning of the tail. Next, use your caping saw to make a precise cut along the spine, removing the cape from the deer’s body. Be careful not to cut too deeply, as this can damage the cape and make it difficult to work with.
Preserving and Preparing the Cape
After you’ve removed the cape, use a mixture of cold water and salt to preserve the skin. A general ratio is 1 cup of salt to 1 gallon of water. Soak the cape in the solution for at least 24 hours to prevent bacterial growth and ensure that the skin remains supple. Once the cape has been preserved, it can be frozen or taken to a taxidermist for mounting. When freezing, be sure to wrap the cape tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent moisture from entering and causing damage.
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