How big a hole is too big?

[Samsquanch]

Before Covid and Ukraine/Russia tanked the market, I would rarely pass up a pelt that had a hole in it knowing that a needle and thread could usually fix anything. Now a days the only coyotes I keep are VERY prime fur with minimal hide damage at all. If they'll take much work or just aren't worth it, I'll leave them lie. Do any of y'all mess with stitching hides in todays market? This one was not taken in todays market but several years ago when they were worth stitching up. Shot with a .243. You can see the entry on the left side and the obvious exit. (Don't knock my fleshing job . I did go over it before I turned the hide)

 

[crapshoot]

I don't sell for so can't answer your question but as far as taxidermy work goes, I've seen taxidermists hide some impressive hole. Most you wouldn't have known they ever existed.

 

[spotstalkshoot]

This year no obvious exit holes and of course no rubs went to auction. Under nickel size, color/ large size male could make quarter size hole acceptable for garment tanning/sales. Auction buyers wouldn't miss any sews. Taxidermy is whole different situation.