Hobbies And Interests
Knife
The most important and basic tool in fleshing is the hand knife. A fleshing knife can come in an array of blade lengths and shapes depending on the job. Wide, flat blades are useful for removing fur from skin and skin from bone and muscle. Long, thin, ballpoint-tipped knives are good for cutting straight lines through fur, skin and even scales.
Tail Stripper
The tail stripper is a seemingly simply tool that performs an important job. Small to medium animals with furry and fleshy tails pose a fleshing challenge even for a skilled hunter or taxidermist. Made of plastic, the trail stripper removes the tail skin from the bone in a single motion. The tail skin comes off intact for later use.
Fur Stretcher
Fur stretchers are typically made from wire and act as hangers. The skin and fur of the animal is stretched over the points of the tool and hung to dry so that it can be further manipulated.
Ear Opener
Ear openers are used for one of the fine details of fleshing. This alloy tool removes the ear skin away from the cartilage without tearing, stretching or creating holes.
I.D. Punch
If you plan to flesh more than one animal, you may want a way to identify the bodies after separation from the skin and fur. An I.D. punch is a short, sharp point that can be heated up and used to mark hides.