Beaver tail ?

[BJP]

I recently aquired a few beaver tails from a friend of mine and would like to make a few grips. I know this question has been asked before but i cant decide from what i found in the archives. Can i just stretch and dry the tail or is it necessary to tan it. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks, Ben

[bigcountry]

All the beaver tails I have seen have been tanned first.

[longbowhntr]

Ben the few that I have done were just rawhide (no tanning.) We split the tail and scrapped as much gunk off the inside as possible and let it dry. When you want to use for a handle wrap just soak it water until it is flexible and cut to shape and lace on. It will shrink some as it drys so I leave the lace a little loose so it don't rip the hide. I might have pics somewhere if it would help explain better if you want to see them.
David
   
 
 

[bigcountry]

Wow, that looks real good for just dried.

[fixer]

Nice job.