How to clean deer skull", "Soda blasting skull", "Taxidermy cleaning tools
Soda Blasting for European Mounts:
The Faster, Safer Way to Clean Skulls
Forget boiling and harsh chemicals. Discover why hunters and taxidermists are switching to the Lematec Sandblaster for professional skull cleaning.
For years, enthusiasts of European skull mounts have searched for the perfect cleaning method—one that preserves natural bone texture while removing grease and residue.
Traditional methods like boiling or beetles take days. Today, a new solution is making a difference in workshops: Soda Blasting with the LEMATEC Sandblaster.
The Problem: Why Traditional Boiling Fails
- Time Consuming: Boiling takes hours; chemical soaking takes days.
- Bone Damage: Over-boiling causes teeth to crack and nasal bones to fall apart.
- Toxic Fumes: Bleaching chemicals create harmful odors in your home.
- Grease Residue: Often fails to remove deep-set grease.
- Fast: Clean a skull in 15-30 minutes.
- Gentle: Soda media is non-destructive and won't pit the bone.
- Safe: Baking soda is 100% non-toxic and water-soluble.
- Detail: Cleans tiny cavities and nerve holes perfectly.
Step-by-Step: How to Clean a Deer Skull with Soda
Using a sandblaster on bone might sound aggressive, but the secret lies in the Media (Soda) and the Pressure (PSI).
Prepare the Skull
Remove as much meat, eyes, and brain matter as possible manually. A quick simmer (do not boil aggressively) can help loosen tissue, but don't overdo it. Let the skull dry slightly before blasting.
Set up Your Lematec Sandblaster
Load your Lematec AS118 with soda media. Set your air compressor to 90 PSI. This pressure is the "sweet spot"—strong enough to strip gristle but gentle enough for bone.
Begin Blasting
Hold the nozzle about 4-6 inches from the skull. Use short bursts to clean crevices, nasal cavities, and teeth. The soda will vaporize dried meat and fat instantly without damaging the delicate bone structure.
Rinse and Dry
Once clean, simply rinse the skull with water. Since baking soda is water-soluble, it washes away completely, leaving no grit behind. Let it dry, and you have a museum-quality European mount.
Why Use the LEMATEC Sandblaster?
Not all sandblasters can handle fine soda media without clogging. The LEMATEC AS118 is engineered for this exact versatility.
- Precision Nozzle: Focuses the blast for intricate work around teeth and eye sockets.
- Gravity & Siphon Feed: Use the hopper for small touch-ups or connect a hose for larger elk/moose skulls.
- Ergonomic Grip: Reduces hand fatigue during detailed cleaning sessions.
- Anti-Clog Design: Smooth flow for fine powders like baking soda.
More Than Just Skulls
Once you finish your mount, your Lematec sandblaster isn't done. Use it for:
- Antique Restoration: Cleaning old metal traps or tools.
- Woodworking: Removing varnish from detailed carvings.
- Auto Parts: Cleaning carburetors or engine parts gently.
Get Your Sandblaster TODAY! Chick Me!
Ready to Upgrade Your Taxidermy Process?
The Lematec Sandblaster brings precision and purity to every detail. Save time and save your skulls.
Vic Chen is the General Manager at Lematec, bringing expert insights into pneumatic tool applications for hobbyists and professionals.
