Abstract: A leaf lard starting apparatus for gripping a lower edge of leaf lard of a hog carcass or the like to initiate separation of the lower edge from the carcass preparatory to removal of the leaf lard from the carcass by other means. The leaf lard starting apparatus includes a leaf lard starter having a pair of clamps activated by a linear motor, and a handle for effecting the positioning of the starter. A control system includes a control valve actuated by means of a push button carried by the handle for controlling the operation of the leaf lard starting apparatus. The leaf lard starter is suspended from a trolley system by means of a second linear fluid motor, and when the push button has been depressed to activate the leaf lard starting apparatus and clamp the leaf lard, the control system automatically causes the second motor to elevate the starter to effectively begin the stripping of the leaf lard from the carcass.