Dumb Question
 

Hey guys.... Long time reader, first time writer. First off, thanks!! This fourm has been full of great info!!!

Now my question.... I've got a set of horns off a buck I killed in 05, It still has the hide on the skull and has been hanging on the shed all this time. Now, I would like to mount these horns on a plaque but the hide is as hard as a rock. Any idea how to remove and clean this set without an air hammer.
Thanks

RE: Dumb Question
 

Hi, soak in water to soften it up then cutit off with a knife.

RE: Dumb Question
 

Jerry is right on the money. Soak the skull in water, til the skin softens a little bit then cut skin off with a knife. It may take a couple of days.

RE: Dumb Question
 

That might work well, but if it doesn't try boiling it in water at a medium to light boil, for 15 minutes or so, this should help the hide soften up enough to take it off.

RE: Dumb Question
 

Boiling is a great way to weaken the skull plate. Soaking for a few days will do just fine.

RE: Dumb Question
 

Add Dawn dish dertergent to the soak, any boiling will weaken the skull as stated.

RE: Dumb Question
 

I think you pretty much got it all now

[Deleted]
 

[Deleted by Admins]

RE: Dumb Question
 

I boil mine to clean them but only boil until the membrane begins to peel off the skull. Do not boil the cartiliage out of the "expansion joints" or your horns are gonna wiggle back and forth. The skull will move when hot but will harden up again provided you didn't overdo it.