Home Forums Hunting & Shooting Deer Hunting Anyone here ever attempt shoulder mounting their own deer?

RB, I killed a nice pronghorn in 1982, and back then I couldn’t even think of paying for taxidermy.

I bought a couple of how-to books from Van Dyke’s and started practicing caping / fleshing / splitting ears lips eyelids etc. on coyotes, coons, and other expendable varmints.

I mounted that goat using a product from Touchstone called Bess Maid. It’s a dry preservative that takes the place of tanning. (I couldn’t afford sending the hide off for tanning.)

43 years later that cape still looks as good as the day I killed it.

I nailed the eyes (which are critical) and ears, but had a bit of trouble getting the lips tucked in properly. They look a bit goofy because I had to use wax and paint.

Anyway, good for you for giving it a go! It’s very rewarding.

I also mounted a sheep I got with a bow a couple years later.

I would never have those mounts if I hadn’t done them myself.

Looking forward to seeing your finished mount. If you don’t want to post pics, send them to me via PM, ok?

Good luck!

👍

Yup, just a doughy old pussy. I even paid to have my hernia fixed today. I’m so ashamed!

Do post some pics of your homemade mount.

I have done a couple of deer and one full body turkey. The process wasn't all that difficult but definitely wasn't happy with the final results. I look at it more of an art and I am definitely not an artist. I happily pay my taxidermist these days.

At least you tried it and know what it all involves now. Good job! I’m sure there’s a lot of folks like you who have tried it and said it’s not for me. I could be joining your group in the near future! Lol. You honestly can’t expect your first few to turnout great though in my opinion.

Either way I think it's a good experience to try out. If nothing more gives you a better appreciation for the work you are paying a taxidermist for. I love mounts. They are great memories. And if you do a deer and aren't happy with it then it can always be redone.

I had a taxidermist that lived across the street from me. I learned how to do mounts from him. He used Bess Maid and got his forms from a place in Louisiana. He always said he would do a deer shoulder mount for free if the person stayed by his side thru each step. There were no takers. I did a few squirrels, ducks and fish for family and myself. I just have too many interests. I did use VanDykes also. The most important thing is a good form and placement of the eyes. At least that’s what Kerry told me.

I did the first mature buck i shot myself when I think i was 16. It's not terrible but there are a few things I'm not happy with on it. I always think I want to take it in and have it remounted but can never bring myself to do. I think it's something to be proud of that I did myself and adds to the whole memory and experience of it. I'm new here so I will have to figure out how to post pictures and I will put some on.