Best methods to prepare hides in the field?

Skinning and Fleshing

Skimming and fleshing are crucial steps in preparing hides in the field. To skin an animal, make a small incision at the anus and work your way up to the shoulders, using a sharp knife to cut through the skin and muscle. Remove as much of the excess flesh as possible, taking care not to tear the hide. Use a fleshing tool or a stone to scrape off any remaining flesh and fat. For larger animals, it’s best to skin them in sections, starting with the hindquarters and working your way up.

Brain-Tanning

Brain-tanning is a traditional method for preserving hides that involves using the animal’s own brain to break down the proteins in the hide. To brain-tan a hide, you’ll need a container to soak the brain in, a knife to scrape the hide, and some natural tanning agents like plant extracts or oils. Start by scraping the hide to remove any remaining flesh and fat, then soak the hide in a solution of water and brain for several hours or overnight. Remove the hide from the solution and apply a tanning agent, working it into the hide with your hands or a tool. Repeat this process several times, allowing the hide to dry between applications.

Drying and Curing

Once the hide is tanned, it’s essential to dry and cure it to prevent spoilage and preserve its quality. To dry a hide, stretch it out over a frame or a tree branch, securing it with cord or wire. Use a fan or a blower to speed up the drying process, and apply a drying agent like beeswax or plant resin to help prevent bacterial growth. Allow the hide to dry for several days or weeks, depending on the thickness and type of hide. Once dry, apply a finisher like mink oil or neatsfoot oil to condition the hide and protect it from the elements.