High barrier casing hog rings

[senorkevin]

I want to try to make a cooked salami or summer sausage. I should be getting the casings soon. My question is if it is necessary to buy hog ring pliers and hog rings or can I just tie the ends with twine or something else?

[johngaltsmotor]

String works. The only benefit I have found from hog rings is that it is easier to clamp them in place when the sausage is compressed. You can pull on the extra casing and push with the hog ring before clamping. With string you either need someone to assist or the knot isn't right at the end.

[senorkevin]

If I had someone to help tie the string would you still recommend buying the pliers and rings?

[onewheeler]

Cable ties work well too and are less fiddly!

[senorkevin]

thats a good idea