OK, I just started deer hunting last year, my local processor isn't going to take deer this year (surgery) and I have NEVER field dressed a deer in my life. My hubby works out of town and isn't going to be here to help, show or load. I have a 4 wheeler to drag one out, a tractor with a loader to load the body in truck. What is the best knife I need to do this, and any info is much appreciated. I have another processor that is a 20 minute ride but only takes field dressed deer. My oldest is a hour away, he worked his youth processing deer so he knows how, but with the HOT Western KY weather I'm going to be in a hurry and he works nights.
Take some milk jugs and fill them with water and put them in the chest freezer if you need to store a deer this will cool the deer better than bagged ice. I use the same 4" rapala filet knife I have used the last 30 years to guy deer, I would recomend a bone saw for the pelvis, just don't rupture any guts and you will be fine.
I like a lightweight very sharp knife and use a havalon. Similar brands are Outdoor edge or Gerber . To gut a deer watch a video on YouTube like this one: As Sota mentioned, get it cooled as soon as possible. Also, sometimes your game departments will do these sorts of demos or trainings...
Watch some YouTube videos and once the time comes it's simply trial and error. Doesn't have to be perfect and there is no certain standard way. Just take your time and you will be fine.
If you have the means of loading the deer I would gut the deer while it is hanging in the garage with good lighting and it is easier to gut a hanging deer.
Most methods are similar except for one thing- the anal canal. To cut the pelvic girdle or not? I I usually do not, but when i do i use a wire saw. I think made by HHE? It zips thru in like 10 seconds.
Thanks I went over to my processor and talked to him, I know have a good, sharp knife, and am ready for the cold snap coming.
I agree with Sota. When you fill the water jugs, don't fill them all the way, fill them about 2/3 so they don't freeze and bust. Also, it is so much easier to dress a hanging deer. I hang mine from the front end loader of the tractor. Then skin, gut, and quarter it all over a metal tub. Let the carcuss fall into the tub then just haul off the tub.
you tube. sharp knife. very careful. don’t cut yourself. try not to cut the guts, bladder or lower intestines. if you do (which everyone does at some point) wash it off and wipe the meat dry. you’ll be fine.
