Functions of the large and mini hide stretcher are to stretch rehydrated tanned hides back to their original size and to fit the taxidermy form they are intended to be used on. The large hide stretcher is designed for large game like deer and elk. The mini stretcher is designed for small animals and large mammal life size legs, faces and other body parts.
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The needle pads on both sides of hide stretcher grabs the hide so it can be stretched by the lever action of the stretcher.
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One benefit of the hide stretcher is when being used the hair follicles do not get damaged or distorted like they do while being hand stretched.
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Another benefit of the hide stretcher is a lot less exertion is needed to stretch the hide, and the hide can be stretched 10 to 20 percent more with the stretcher.
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The hide stretcher can also be adjusted by moving the center pin on the leverage arm to change from small to large hides.
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The hide stretcher also works great for rug makers holding the hide in place while being tacked in position by placing a small weight on the handle to hold it in the down position.
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The hide stretcher is to be used on the Skin Side Only! Do not use on the hair side of the hide.
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Larger hides like life size hides and elk capes may be stretched by setting the stretcher to its widest position, the stretching hide down one side of the skin side, and then stretching the hide down the other side of the skin side.
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If the hide stretcher starts to skip across the hide it is usually caused by the needle pads getting plugged by hide material. The needle pads can be cleaned with a stout ruffer or a stiff bristled hair brush.
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If you notice the forward pad skipping more that the rear pad, it is usually because the rear pad has more down pressure and/or some tans have more oils in the hide. You can help this by using your fingers to hold the hide up against the front of the forward needle pad.