Once traced out I used a jig saw with a metal blade to cut it out. Worked very nicely and gave me the shape I wanted. I also add a center notch in the bottom to lock it in place to the stand I will build. I should mention if they look long there us a reason. I have hears many a trapper say that fleahing is a back breaking labor so I built my beams at 54" keep it sitting high. The tip should hit me about mid chest to save on,leaning over while working the hide