5 replies to this topic

[bucknbill]

first of all I am not a know-it-all. But it is getting close to hunting season, the things I mention here is fairly known. When we get that trophy if it is to be mounted there are some does and donts. Never cut the throat, it is nearly impossible to fix with out a small scar, especially early season, never split the brisket skin, cut off well behind the shoulders and split the skin behind the front leg where the hairline meets. Dont split the back of neck, just encircle the deer behind front legs and skin out toback of head. please be careful nicks are not too bad but cut could leave a scar. Nevercut  into the hair, just stick knife in and pull outward. If possible remove all big chuncks of meat from skin, no use having to freeze that too. You would be suprisedhow some people do there trophy, some will be split from brisket to throat, many capes are cut way to short for shoulder mount, some are just beginning to spoil and the taxidermist is not aware until it is thawed, I have seen more than I care to see that had to have been skinned with chainsaw. Smaller animals can be frozen whole. A LOT of the finished product depends on how you handle it. Treat it right and you will have something to be proud of.  Happy hunting

[Urban Legend]

Thanks for posting some helpful tips.

[saxman]

Good advice my friend.I have never had one mounted and threads like this remind me of proper care.
May I add that proper field care of the meat is importand so you enjoy fine table fare.

[Rockin' G Ranch]

Thanks for the great advise. If I plan to do a mount I will not cut the hide above the sternum. I even pull the the front legs out like a foot out of a sock just to be sure I give the taxidermist all the hide he can possibly need.

[mopar1969]

Cool thread.


The buck I just got was a scrapper it had a busted antler and bumps on its snout looks like it had a broken jaw at some point.

Question would you have the taximdermist  replicate the bumps or just mount it over the form as is?

[Ranger]

As a taxidermist I would rather put it over the mannikin as it is and let it conform to it.  But if you really wanted the bumps I would do my best to accommodate you.  Best to talk to your taxidermist and see what he thinks and is willing to do.