Quick Answer
When skinning around the antlers, hold the skin taut with one hand and use a sharp knife to carefully separate the skin from the skull at a 45-degree angle, working your way around the antlers in a consistent, smooth motion.
Techniques for Skin Separation
To skin around the antlers effectively, maintain a steady, controlled motion with your knife. Hold the skin taut with your non-dominant hand, using your fingers to guide the knife blade. Start at the base of the antlers and work your way up, making a precise cut at a 45-degree angle to the skull. This angle helps prevent accidental cutting of the skin near the antler bases.
Antler-Specific Considerations
When skinning around the antlers, be cautious not to cut too deeply, as this can damage the skin around the bases of the antlers. Use a sharp knife with a gentle touch, and make multiple shallow cuts if necessary to maintain control. For larger antlers, consider making a smaller initial cut and then using a skinning tool or your fingers to carefully tease the skin away from the skull.
Preparing the Skin for Preservation
Once you’ve successfully skinned around the antlers, inspect the skin for any tears or damage. If necessary, apply a small amount of skin glue to repair any issues. Next, stretch and clean the skin to prepare it for preservation. You can either salt-cure the skin or freeze it for future use. If you plan to cape the deer for a shoulder mount, consider cutting a cape along a precise pattern and applying a suitable sealant to preserve the skin.
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