How to Remove the Hide From a Deer

Once started with a knife, a deer's hide will pull off the body with minimal effort.

Skinning the carcass can be accomplished in a few minutes once a deer has been field dressed. The hide is attached to the body via a membrane -- and once started with a knife -- will peel away from the body with very little effort. To protect meat from dirt and debris, the hide should be left on the body until it reaches the place where it will be butchered.

Things You'll Need

• Rope
• Skinning knife

Instructions

1. Hang the deer by the hide legs with the rope. Place the 2-by-2 between the rear legs at the knees to keep the hide-quarters spread.

2. Cut through the hide around the neck and just behind the ears. Cut around the tailbone and around all four knees.

3. Slip the tip of the skinning knife under the hide at the incision at one of the knees. Cutting upward, make a slit along the length of the leg to the body. Repeat on the other three legs.

4. Peel the hide back from the hind quarters with your hand; pull it down and toward the spine. Use the knife in spots where the hide hangs up. Cut the attaching membrane without cutting into the flesh.

5. Work the hide down until you reach the cut around the neck. Pull the hide free.

Tips & Warnings

• If you plan to mount the deer's head, make an incision around the circumference of the body, just behind the shoulders. Peel the hide toward the head as far as possible. Cut through the neck with a hacksaw.

References

• Best Venison: Skinning Your Deer

Resources

• Missouri Department of Conservation: Skinning and Cleaning a Deer