Quick Answer
To field cape a bear, start by cutting the hide from the neck, working your way down to the shoulder area, while taking care not to cut through the cape skin. This requires a sharp knife and steady hand. The goal is to remove the cape skin in one piece.
Preparing the Hide
When preparing the hide for caping, it’s essential to remove the flesh and subcutaneous fat from the neck and shoulder area. This is best done with a sharp knife, working from the center of the hide outward. For a black bear, you’ll typically remove about 1-2 inches of flesh and fat from the neck and shoulder area. For a grizzly or brown bear, you may need to remove up to 3 inches. Use a clean, sharp knife and make smooth, even cuts to avoid tearing the cape skin.
Cutting the Cape Skin
To cut the cape skin, start at the base of the neck, just above the shoulders. Make a shallow cut down to the hide, about 1 inch from the skin. Continue cutting down to the hide, working your way around the body, making sure to stay about 1 inch from the skin at all times. Use a gentle sawing motion to cut through any thick areas of hide or muscle. As you cut, use your fingers or a blunt instrument to pry the hide away from the bone and muscle.
Finalizing the Cape
Once you’ve removed the cape skin, inspect it for any tears or damage. If necessary, use a small amount of hide glue to repair any tears or holes. Trim any excess hide or fat from the edges of the cape, making it easier to work with. Finally, use a sharp knife to trim the cape to the desired shape, making sure to leave a small margin around the edges. This will help prevent the cape from fraying or tearing when you’re handling it.
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