Suggestions for Tannery? USDA Facility?

14 February 2008, 07:05

DC Roxby

I am going to Namibia for my first African hunt in May and have a couple of questions. My plan is to have hides shipped to a tannery in the US for tanning, and then to me.

1. Will I pay more to the tannery because I am not a taxidermist?

2. Do I need a USDA facility if I am not bringing back hogs or apes?

3. Anybody have thoughts on Golden State or Texas Best Stretch?

I was planning on using Texas Best Stretch, but broker said I need a USDA facility and recommended Golden State.

Thanks!

______________________

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14 February 2008, 07:24

L. David Keith

No matter where they're going, you must enter via a US Port of Entry and pass USF&W and or USDA inspection. If you do not use a Broker you will need to travel to the POE and do the paperwork. I know Grafton uses a tannery in NC I believe that is licensed to import, but PM him to get the scoop.
LDK

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14 February 2008, 07:24

george roof

I can answer 1 & 2

Probably

Yes

Since I'm on the east coast, I can't help you with the other but is their port of entry going to be California. If they have to come through New York, Carolina Fur can do it just as easily and then ship the hides to you (though I don't think they will deal with anyone other than licensed taxidermists)

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14 February 2008, 17:56

Hughiam

Have your hides shipped to Carolina Fur Dressing. I have all my clients do that, great stretch, fast turnaround. Contact your local taxidermist before you go, and see what he wants to do.

CFD is USDA approved and will work with your importer. I used Fauna and Flora out of Jamaica New York.

Unless your mounting your own animals, whoever you have mounting them should have a relationship with a tannery. If your mounting your own, get a taxidermy license($10.00 in Michigan with no training) and have them shipped to you.

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14 February 2008, 19:50

Hughiam

DC,

I don't know Texas Best Stretch, but have heard of Golden State. I like Carolina even over a huge tannery we have here in Michigan.

African work is hard, and Im no expert. Make sure your local guy has done African work before and youve had a chance to look at it. It mounts up much differently than NA game does.

I see your from Ouray, I spent a few nights there years ago. Beautiful place. Does Bill Fries still do the San Juan Spectactular Slide show?

Hugh

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14 February 2008, 20:13

DC Roxby

I just got off of the phone with South Texas Fur Dressers. To say they were helpful would be an understatement. They are sending me info and if the prices are within reason I think I am going to use them.

Thanks for the lead J P Baker!

Hughiam, I have heard Bill's name but think the slide show went away a few years back.

14 February 2008, 21:51

Mary Hilliard-Krueger

All of our African skins come through Tom at South Texas. Chris has been very pleased with the business relationship and the work for many years.

We use Carolina Furs for all our other work and YOST for our furbearers.

Hugh...can't agree with you strongly enough about your comments on that 'other' tannery in Michigan, Carolina has them beat ...hands down! I have heard negative feedback from other taxidermists,in state, about Golden State.

Taxidermist/Rugmaker

15 February 2008, 06:05

Golden State will do a reasonable job. They have been at it a long time and should please you. I used them in the past. I now import thru another taxidermist who is USDA approved and he charges a minimal fee then I can have my tanner (the best in the country

) to tan the hides.

I have also heard mostly good things about South Texas Fur, but have had no personal dealings with them.

Best of Luck. Have a great hunt.