Not as bad as I thought

[Krazyquilts]

Congrats on your first 'harvest' @kesrchicky16!

Prefer to pluck myself, especially young cockerels(<16wo) that can go on the grill.
It's pretty darn easy if you get the scald water just right.
Most feathers basically brush right off.
I have a great way to hold legs while plucking, pic below.
I crank the water heater up and get 140F out of the nearby laundry tap,
doesn't take long to get it to the 155F I use on the propane burner.

Partially skinned an 8mo cockerel my first slaughter(long story) it was hard to get that skin off to take breast, legs and upper wings.

Skinning the feet is easy, I save them for last and toss them all in the scalder.
Love that nail cover popping off..and they are great for stock.
Made stock from just feet and necks once.

Spring loaded broom or tool holders:
View attachment 1196036

Wow, those holders are great!

 

[kesrchicky16]

I've got a rooster that's pushing his luck and might give me a chance for an encore. He hasn't gone after me and backed off when I pushed my son to push back. GRRRR. Testosterone (said with a tone of explitive)!

I LOVE all the advice. Better for me to learn from your experience then struggling through it alone.

 

[Krazyquilts]

I've got a rooster that's pushing his luck and might give me a chance for an encore. He hasn't gone after me and backed off when I pushed my son to push back. GRRRR. Testosterone (said with a tone of explitive)!

I LOVE all the advice. Better for me to learn from your experience then struggling through it alone.

Sorry you're having trouble with your rooster. I butchered a mean rooster and don't miss him, nor Big Turkey either who had started following me around in an not entirely friendly manner. Every time I hear about a "really nice" rooster who keeps attacking people, I keep thinking that there's a 100% effective solution - soup!