What do you need to process wild game at home.
Getting started processing your own wild game at home is neither cheap nor easy. But neither is dropping your game off . I find a lot of personal satisfaction in processing my own wild game. There are terrific books and YouTube channels you can use as a resource to get you started. There is nothing like doing it! Just get in there and be ready to get a few things right, a few things wrong and be willing to learn. Having the right equipment might be the difference between good and really good. Making an investment in GOOD equipment will make the job go easier. This list isn’t all inclusive. I have much more and maybe different equipment in my meat shop. This is a “what do I need to get started” list. This list is also not sponsored ( I do have agreements with Thermoworks and Coolbot). I’ll never recommend a product I don’t use, wouldn’t use or think is of good value. As time goes on, manufacturers may contact me. If they do, I will be explicit that if I become an affiliate .
Affiliate link to Thermoworks. I have used thermoworks products for over 20 years and only recently become an affiliate. they have a lot of products perfect for the meat shop. I use the following: The NODE WIFI temperature sensor, Thermapen one for instant read temp control and the RFX remote for set and forget cooking.
Affiliate link to Coolbot is just my email. Utahmeat@gmail.com
Refrigeration- The BIGGEST problem with larger wild game is keeping it cold. Coolbot is the perfect solution for me allowing me to have a walk-in cooler. My cool-bot is paired with a window AC unit. Their website has plans on how you can stick frame and insulate a small walk-in cooler. Second best is a dedicated refrigerator, one or two. I’ve never had trouble finding used refrigerators for $150-200.
Grinders and stuffers. I use a Procut grinder and it’s a beast. It’s also pretty big, heavy and expenive. For occasional use, you might consider a LEM Big Bite #22 or a similar model from Waltons.
Stuffer- I use the LEM Bigbite dual gear 25 pound. I use this stuffer to package ground meat. I will grind up the elk burger, then use the stuffer to fill one pound bags. I usually buy from Walton’s.
Scale. I use the 330 pound model from LEM. Stainless digital scale
Vacuum sealer. I use the VP215 from vacmaster.
Bag sizes and mil thickness. I like 4 mil bags. I keep 8x10 and 12x15 on hand. I also use 12x16 3 Mil for soft bagging bacon and meat ready for grind.
Saws. I use a 25 and 20” bone saw. I buy these and replacement blades from KASCO I’d start with the 20” and buy a few extra blades when you order your saw.
Knives- I use knives from Victronix, Victory and F. Dick. Each company sells similar knives. My main knife is a 6” semi-flex. My secondary knife is a 12” breaking knife. Get a couple of the 6” but you’ll only need one breaking knife.
Meat lugs- 20”x15”x5” Buy the good ones. Every time I’ve tried to save a little, the lugs are of VERY poor quality. I usually buy Rubbermaid.
