Learn to Process DEER Properly

[rtrowbr1]

I am interested in hands-on instruction on how to process a deer.  Been hunting/processing deer for a few years but looking for expert training to help improve my processing skills in the Nashville area.

Any feedback much appreciated-

[Chris]

Not that hard to teach yourself. I'm no expert but we can get from field to freezer in about 3 hours flat now.

I learned using this dvd: http://www.cabelas.com/product/Outdoor-Edge-Deer-and-Big-Game-Processing-Volume-DVD/747317.uts?searchPath=%2Fbrowse.cmd%3FcategoryId%3D734095080%26CQ_search%3Ddeer%2Bprocessing%2Bdvd%26CQ_st%3Db

You tube also has many many informational videos.

That being said, if you find a professional processor who will give classes, let me know... always looking to improve my techniques.

[Omega]

+1 on the youtube videos.  I saved a few for a friend that wanted to learn how but never managed to come by when I had one down.  PM your snail mail and I'll send you a disk with a few butchering videos. 

[Handsome Rob]

The last place I'd ever go for butchering classes is any kind of processor.

Deer processing is a volume gig. The quicker they can get through deer, the more money they make. I don't mean this as a slight, it's just how it is in the meat cutting business.

A processor isn't ever going to tell you exactly how to separate individual muscles, what each muscle is used for & how to cut it correctly. Mostly, they're bandsaw butchers.

The Virginia Fish & Game folk put out (or at least, used to put out) a very well made 'field to freeze' dvd for about $20. It's literally a butcher-along. I have mine away some time ago, otherwise I'd gladly let you have it. It's without a doubt the best $20 I ever spent on hunting gear.

[Chris]

Good point, Rob. Hadn't thought of that.

 

[Randall53]

My hat is off to you guys willing to process your own deer. At my age and condition, it's all I can do to field dress one and drag it out of the woods!! I can clean a mess of crappie though lickety split!! LOL.