How to Boil Deer Antlers

When you manage to bag a buck, you may desire to keep the antlers for use or display. Boiling deer antlers is necessary to remove hair and tissue. This makes the antlers suitable for mounting. Antlers can also be used to create rustic decor or furniture. Boiling also will kill any parasites that may be living on the antlers.

Things You'll Need

  • Large pot
  • Small knife
  • Sandpaper
  • Iodized Salt
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Instructions

  1. How to Boil Deer Antlers

    • 1

      Remove as much velvet and skin from the antlers as possible using a small knife or razor blade.

    • 2

      Boil water in a large pot. Add iodized salt to the water, about a teaspoon per gallon.

    • 3

      Immerse the antlers in the boiling water. Let boil for a few minutes and then remove to scrape off skin and tissue remnants. Repeat this process three or four times or until the antlers are as free of remnants as possible.

    • 4

      Boil the antlers for an additional 30 minutes and remove carefully.

    • 5

      Use sandpaper to do the final cleaning of the antlers. A fine grit sandpaper will allow you to clean all the crevices.