How To Preserve Deer Legs

How to Preserve Deer Legs: A Comprehensive Guide for Hunters and Enthusiasts

Deer leg preservation is a rewarding process that allows you to keep a cherished memento from your hunting trip or to create unique home décor. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or a curious beginner, this guide provides a step-by-step approach to preserving deer legs effectively, ensuring they retain their natural beauty and integrity for years to come.

Choosing the Right Deer Legs for Preservation

The success of your preservation project heavily depends on the condition of the deer legs you choose. Select legs that are free from significant damage, such as deep cuts, fractures, or extensive decay. The fresher the legs, the better the preservation results. Ideally, you should begin the preservation process as soon as possible after the hunt.

Assessing the Condition

Before you start, thoroughly inspect the legs for any signs of damage. Look for:

• Deep cuts or gashes: These can impede the preservation process and increase the risk of infection.
• Fractures or broken bones: While repairable, fractures significantly complicate preservation.
• Extensive decay or insect infestation: Legs exhibiting significant decay should not be preserved.

Methods for Preserving Deer Legs

Several methods can preserve deer legs, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. We will focus on two popular and reliable techniques:

1. Taxidermy: The Professional Approach

Taxidermy is the most professional and effective method for preserving deer legs. It involves a detailed process that meticulously cleans, fleshes, and tans the leg bones, resulting in a long-lasting, museum-quality specimen. This method is recommended for those who want the best results but requires specialized skills and tools. You'll likely need to hire a professional taxidermist to achieve optimal preservation.

2. Cleaning and Bleaching: A DIY Approach

This method is more accessible for beginners and involves cleaning the leg bone thoroughly and then bleaching it to achieve a clean, white aesthetic. This method requires patience and careful attention to detail but is perfectly suitable for creating unique decorative pieces.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning and Bleaching Deer Legs

This section details the process of cleaning and bleaching deer legs for a DIY preservation project:

Step 1: Fleshing and Cleaning

• Remove all remaining flesh and tissue: Use a sharp knife or scalpel to carefully remove all muscle, tendons, and ligaments from the leg bone. Be meticulous to avoid leaving any residue.
• Clean thoroughly: Use water and a stiff brush to remove any remaining debris or tissue fragments.
• Degreasing (optional): Soaking the bones in a degreasing solution like Dawn dish soap can help remove excess fat and oils for better bleaching results.

Step 2: Bleaching the Bones

• Prepare a bleaching solution: Mix a bleaching agent, such as hydrogen peroxide (3% solution recommended), with water. The exact ratio depends on the desired level of whiteness and the bone's size. Start with a weaker solution and add more if necessary.
• Submerge the bones: Carefully place the cleaned bones into the bleaching solution. Ensure that they are fully submerged.
• Monitor and adjust: Check the bones regularly and adjust the solution's strength or change it as needed. The bleaching process can take several days or even weeks depending on the bone size and desired results.

Step 3: Finishing Touches

• Rinse thoroughly: Once the desired whiteness is achieved, rinse the bones thoroughly with clean water to remove any remaining bleach residue.
• Dry completely: Allow the bones to air dry completely in a well-ventilated area. This process can take several days or weeks.
• Finishing and sealing (optional): You can apply a clear sealant to protect the bones from moisture and discoloration.

Safety Precautions

Always prioritize safety when handling deer legs and chemicals:

• Wear protective gloves and eyewear when handling bones and chemicals.
• Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling harmful fumes.
• Dispose of chemicals properly according to local regulations.

Conclusion

Preserving deer legs can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to create a unique and lasting reminder of your hunting adventures. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully preserve these natural treasures and display them proudly. Remember to always prioritize safety and choose the method that best suits your skills and resources.