As an avid air rifle enthusiast and hunting expert, I’ve had my fair share of experiences with small game hunting, including squirrels. One of the most rewarding aspects of hunting is utilizing every part of the animal, and tanning the hide is a fantastic way to honor the animal and create a lasting memento. In this guide, I’ll share my expertise on how to tan a squirrel hide, perfect for those planning their October hunts.
Table of Contents
The Art of Hide Tanning: A Time-Honored Tradition
Before we dive into the specifics of squirrel hide tanning, let’s take a moment to appreciate this ancestral skill. Hide tanning has been practiced for thousands of years, allowing our ancestors to create durable, waterproof materials for clothing, shelter, and tools. Today, it remains a relevant and rewarding hobby for hunters and crafters alike.
As the chief instructor at the NRA education and training department and the main content creator for Air Gun Maniac, I’ve seen a growing interest in traditional skills like hide tanning among our community. It’s a great way to connect with nature and our hunting heritage.
Preparing for Your Squirrel Hunt
Before we get into the tanning process, let’s briefly touch on the hunt itself. When hunting squirrels with an air rifle, accuracy is key. I recommend using a .22 caliber air rifle for clean, humane kills. Remember to check your local hunting regulations and obtain the necessary permits before heading out.
Step-by-Step Guide to Tanning a Squirrel Hide
1. Skinning the Squirrel
The tanning process begins immediately after the hunt. Carefully skin the squirrel, taking care not to puncture the hide. A sharp knife and steady hand are essential here.
2. Cleaning the Hide
Once skinned, scrape off any remaining flesh or fat from the hide. This step is crucial for a successful tan.
3. Salting the Hide
Now, let’s address the method you mentioned:
I’ve seen on places dry, let sit in 5 cups salt to 1 gallon of water, then stretch.
This is a good starting point, but let me expand on it. Create a brine solution using 5 cups of non-iodized salt per gallon of water. Submerge the hide in this solution for 24 hours. This helps preserve the hide and remove any remaining blood.
4. Rinsing and Drying
After brining, rinse the hide thoroughly in clean water. Gently squeeze out excess water, but don’t wring it.
5. Stretching the Hide
While the hide is still damp, stretch it fur-side down on a wooden frame or board. Use small nails or tacks around the edges to keep it taut.
6. Applying the Tanning Solution
Here’s where we diverge from the simple salt method. For a more durable result, I recommend using a commercial tanning solution or a mixture of:
- 1 part brain (yes, the squirrel’s brain works perfectly)
- 1 part water
- 1 teaspoon of salt
Apply this mixture generously to the flesh side of the hide.
7. Working the Hide
This is the most labor-intensive part. As the hide dries, work it with your hands to keep it soft and pliable. This process, known as “breaking” the hide, can take several hours spread over a few days.
8. Smoking the Hide (Optional)
For added durability and a traditional finish, you can smoke the hide over a small fire of punk wood or sage.
Tips for Success
- Patience is key. Rushing the process can lead to a stiff or poorly preserved hide.
- Keep your tools clean to prevent contamination of the hide.
- If you’re new to tanning, practice on a few hides before attempting to create a final product.
Conclusion
Tanning a squirrel hide is a rewarding process that connects us to our hunting heritage. It’s a perfect way to utilize every part of the animal and create a lasting memento of your hunt. As you prepare for your October squirrel hunting trip, remember that the journey doesn’t end with the shot – it continues with the preservation of the hide.
I encourage you to try this method and share your experiences with our community at Air Gun Maniac. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just starting out, there’s always something new to learn in the world of hunting and outdoor skills.
Happy hunting, and happy tanning!
