I have used this solution and had good results. 1 gallon soft water, 1 oz commercial strength sulfuric acid ( bought at Co-op ) 1 quart fine softerner salt. Make enough solution to soak entire hide, stir with wooden stick . Soak smaller hides for three days and larger for 5. Wring hide dry, and soak overnite in water with sal soda to neutralize any remaining acid. Rub and pull and stretch hide as it is drying. If it drys hard, dampen and rub and work again. Repeat until hide is soft, treat finished hide with neatsfoot oil. Wear satey glasses and rubber gloves, do not inhale fumes when adding acid to water. Use a rounded object like the end of a baseball bat to work hide soft. For best appearance wash hide in soap and water to remove dirt and blood before starting. Do not soak to long in acid solution and make sure hide is loose and not rolled tight when soaking. Start with small hide before you do deer or a bear. It is a lot of work.
