Quick Answer
When it comes to preserving a deer cape, the best type of salt is pickling salt, also known as canning salt or flaked salt, which is free of additives like iodine or anti-caking agents that can discolor the skin. Use a ratio of 1 cup of salt to 1 gallon of water. This solution helps to prevent bacterial growth and maintains the skin's texture.
Selecting the Right Salt
When caping a deer, it’s essential to use the right type of salt to preserve the skin. While other types of salt may work, pickling salt is the most effective option. This type of salt is free of additives like iodine or anti-caking agents that can discolor the skin or cause it to become brittle.
Creating the Salt Solution
To create the salt solution, mix 1 cup of pickling salt with 1 gallon of water. For optimal results, use a ratio of 1:10 or 1:15 salt to water, but be aware that higher concentrations can be too harsh on the skin. Once the solution is prepared, place the deer cape in a container or bag, making sure that the skin is completely submerged in the solution.
Freezing and Taxidermist Prep
After the deer cape has been preserved in the salt solution for at least 24 hours, it’s essential to rinse the skin thoroughly with clean water to remove excess salt. Next, pat the skin dry with paper towels and allow it to air-dry for several hours or overnight. Once the skin is dry, you can begin preparing it for freezing and ultimately, the taxidermist. To ensure the skin retains its texture and appearance, it’s crucial to freeze it at 0°F (-18°C) or below as soon as possible.
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