Most falconers use kangaroo skin. The Indians used dog skin, and I have tried tanned skin from the belly of a pig, it is very strong but absorbs moisture easily. When I try skin what I do is use my leather punch and put a normal size hole in it. I then place a thick nail in the hole and then I try to rip the hole out. If it rips out easily then the skin is of no use. I have heard that some people have used tanned deer skin, I myself have not tried it. In making different styles of leashes I use parachute cord, it has a tested weight of three hundred pounds and is small enough that you can braid it or use single strands for like field jesses
Yeh, I wasn't talking about jesses and anklets, only leashes... I know never to put artificial stuff against a bird.... speaking of artificial stuff, what do you think for ropes (as in rope perches and stuff)? Would you say natural is better, or artificial? Modern Apprentice says artificial because they are easier to clean.
well where do you suggest I get a natural rope, sadly they seem to be going away, synthetic seems to be taking over. I was thinking maybe hardware store... or ooo just thought of this... a boat supply store?
You can buy sissel rope at any hardware store such as Lowe's, Home Depot, and any farm supply store. They sell it at different widths and lengths, and is all natural.