What are the best tools to process birds?

[MCI]

I use a Dexter Russell boning knife. They are fairly inexpensive and a decent quality. Get a good quality whetstone and learn how to use it. I have a few pieces of cord I use to hang them up to bleed out. Canning pot and thermometer to scald. Cutting board. Cooler with ice. Empty clean trash can. Running water.

If your treadle grindstone is what I'm thinking of it isn't for knives but is good for tools, axe, shovel, machete, pick, etc.

 

[Sunny Side Up]

Also, I use a basic instant-read meat thermometer to test the water temps, but a clamp-on one would be nice too. The water need not stay at around 150 degrees, just be that hot when you're ready to dunk. I usually process by myself and do 2 birds at a time, letting the water cool a bit between pairs. My son brings more hot water to refresh the scalding bucket.

Another thing that helps to keep your tools sharp is to learn to cut between the bones, not through them, and to slice the necks along the bare patch, not through the feathers.

Happy processing!