Sounds like time for a zen brain tanning party! We used to get a lot done with steaks and beer for an incentive. I think you can do a hide in 6 - 8 hours, with 4/5 people dividing tasks, and switching off. On the other hand, I think I have a bunch of antelope hides waiting to be worked and no gumption to work them! No big barrel to soften them in either!
Hawkdancer