Caring for elk or deer hide jackets?

[ButteMT61]

This one I just picked up is my first. Wondering if anyone knows how to care for it? I never used anything on the boots, gloves, etc. I've owned. It's very different from goat, horse, and steer. I don't get the feeling it would take well to anything being put on it - gOOgling didn't really give me any great info, so if you fellers have a clue, please share

 

[JanSolo]

Since elk and deer are thick but soft and somewhat spongy they are usually very absorbent (especially if aniline finished). I would be very careful with any sort of conditioner. Use one of these Lexol cotton wrapped flat sponges for conditioning.

I very much recommend Colourlock Aniline Protector (not only for deer) and Elephant Leather Preserver. Fully synthetic, odourless... No natural ingredients that can become rancid, no silicone additives that clog the pores. A bit pricy but worth the money considering the price of a quality jacket.

I wouldn't put Lexol or neatsfoot or lanolin based stuff on ANY of my jackets.

BTW: Elephant Preserver works very well with FQHH and it leaves no sticky residue on the surface if applied properly (pre-heat and hairdryer for final finish)

Hope that helps

 

[ButteMT61]

Thanks Jan! Never heard of that one - have to take a look. So far, I've fought off putting anything on my new jackets. I did wipe down the Bronco A-2 with Lexol, but it seems to be just fine. A once a year thing. Off to find "Colourlock Aniline Protector" now...

Scott