Using Sodium Carbonate (Sal Soda)

Sodium Carbonate is an excellent chemical for removing flesh from skulls, jaws, etc. Add 1/4 cup of Sodium Carbonate to each gallon of boiling water used. Place the skull in boiling water for 30 to 45 minutes, then remove. Flesh will become loose and can then be easily removed.

Note: On deer horns, after boiling, the skull cap will loosen up and horns will move around. Don't worry - after the skull cap dries out (about 24 hours), the horns will start to solidify again. Thirty minutes should be an adequate amount of time to boil out skull caps.

It is recommended to wear protective goggles and rubber gloves when working with Sodium Carbonate (Sal Soda).

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