As a taxidermist in business for 40 years, I can tell you that, you will never get a hide to tan as soft as a professional tannery.

I do from time to time tan a hide here and there because it might be for a special showing, but there is nothing to compare to a good tannery job.

since you are only doing one then it might be a good experience for you to tan it.
then you will appreciate what a tannery does.

No tannery do not flesh meat off, you are suppose to do a basic de-meating and de-fating.
then salt it real good at least twice and then send it to them, they will shave the hide thing for you and tan it.

Good luck.
Alex
ADVANCE TAXIDERMY SERVICES,INC.
MIAMI FLA.