at what temp do you bone out?

[RadSav]

Thanks for the pointer Rad!  I will do that.   

I have been wanting to try it for a few years now, but my last couple of elk were pretty easy to get out, so we gutted them and took them whole.  I don't think that will be the case this year as we are planning on heading back a few miles from any open road.

I CAN'T WAIT!!!!  12 DAYS LEFT!!

That's been the case for us too.  My brother gave me half a mile of mule tape for a Christmas present a few years back .  If they are within sight of the road and temps are not too high we've been dragging them to the road after gutting and then boning in the cooler or back at camp.  Though we hunt only a half hour from the shop/cooler.

[Instinct]

If u drop one in the morning and 3/4 a mile from camp would u even bother deboneing/skinning the quarters? Jw

[kalamasasquatch]

Tanks for all the input and replies, i appreciate it. I guess maybe i should have worded my question a litle diffrent. I am well aware of boning out for longer packs and all, but am concerened with how much time i have i guess. Where i have killed all my elk, it takes about 12-14 hours from kill to cooler. Is that too long in 80 degree weather? 70? I did kill 1 in 80 degree temps, but i was very luck and was able to get cell phone service to get my partener in to pick me/it up. Thats no longer an option so i am worried I cant get one out in time this year. granted where i camp is dark and cool next to the river so i can hang meat there.....

[RadSav]

Whether 70 or 80 degrees it wouldn't change the way I'd proceed which is faster to cool the better.  You can never cool an elk too fast.  In December I might see some additional flexibility, but in September I'd bone on the spot under that time to cooler scenario.

[Battle Ready]

even if I quarter out my elk for the pack out..typically I will at least seperate the meat from the bone...otherwise I debone. It doesnt matter much with temp, but I dont freak out in the late season like I do in the early season.

[Alan K]

If I can't get the rope to it, and it's too far to pack a chainsaw winch in, then I bone.  It's either whole or boned out for me regardless of time of year or temperature.

[rebal69972]

very good write up. and alot of very helpful info. thank you all 

[Elkrunner]

Now we just need to put these tips into good use next week!