Homestead mailing list

[EarthNSky <erthnsky AT bellsouth.net>]

The thing about road kill deer is if they were hit hard enough to kill
them, then they are busted up inside and a ruptured gall bladder will
mess up the meat because of the bile.  You might be able to use some of
the meat but will have some that is bruised and bloodshot. If you want
to use the bloodshot meat anyway, soak in vinegar water and salt,
change water as it becomes bloody, soak at least overnight. Also, if
you are skinning a buck, stay away from the tarsal gland on the rear
legs down around the ankles, NASTY, don't get none on you, move on up
the leg to saw off before skinning. Deer legs can be used to make gun
racks.  Bend the tibia at the ankle joint with the hoof intact and tie
in place. After it dries, remove the tie and attach the legs to a board
with screws (predrill holes through the bone), put some screw eyes or
other fasteners on the back of the board to hang on the wall.  *Use the
front legs to avoid the tarsal glands on the back legs of the buck.  If
it is a doe, use front and back and you'll have 2 gunracks.  The
deerskin will protect the barrel and stock from scratches. I know ya'll
have probably seen these before and get the idea. These can also be
used for a coat rack or hat rack.  You can get creative. I've seen some
interesting light fixtures made with antlers and of course, knife
handles. This might generate a little extra income if you make knives
or just offer antlers for sale.  You can find deer antlers on e-bay to
get an idea of the going rate. You can use deerhide to replace a chair
bottom and it will last forever. And of course there's the deer bone
stiletto if you happen to need one - can be used as an awl. Lots of
things you can do with a deer.




--
Bevanron of EarthNSky Farm   Sleep well tonight, for somewhere in the 
ocean's depths, MY son is protecting YOUR freedom.