Top Deer Mounts for Displaying Your Trophy
Full Range Hanging Systems Wall-Mounted Corner Game Display
This mount is perfect for showcasing shoulder-mounted deer in the corner of a room, allowing for a remarkable 180-degree rotation.
- Strong enough for a 35-pound mount, ideal for whitetail and mule deer.
- Compact design fits well in corners without taking up too much space.
- Not suitable for larger species like elk or moose.
Highwild European Mount Skull Hanger
This simple yet elegant solution is perfect for displaying skulls, making it a great choice for those who prefer a minimalist style.
- Constructed from heavy-duty steel, ensuring durability.
- Easy to install and can support loads of up to 20 pounds.
- Not recommended for larger skulls like alligators.
Skull Hooker Little Hooker European Trophy Mount
This versatile mount is designed for a variety of animal skulls, making it a great addition for any trophy collection.
- Allows for easy angle adjustments with a 180-degree rotation feature.
- Sturdy prong system fits well into natural holes in deer skulls.
- Skull does not sit flush against the mount, causing it to protrude slightly.
Which Deer Mounts Are Best?
After numerous hunting trips, it’s time to showcase your prized deer. However, simply hanging it on a wall isn’t practical. Thankfully, there are various deer mounting solutions available today, ensuring your trophy is displayed with finesse.
For those seeking a shoulder mount, we highly recommend the Full Range Hanging Systems Wall-Mounted Corner Game Display. This mount not only looks great but also boasts a 180-degree rotation for optimal viewing angles.
Key Considerations Before Purchasing a Deer Mount
Types of Deer Mounts
Before embarking on your deer mounting journey, it’s crucial to determine the type of mount you desire. This decision can be made before your hunting trip. There are several types to choose from: antler mounts, European mounts that include the skull, shoulder mounts showcasing the deer up to its shoulders, and full-body mounts for a more comprehensive display. If you have leftover deer parts, consider making antler dog chews.
Preparing the Deer
After a successful hunt, you have several options regarding the deer. If you intend to use the entire carcass, it can be removed from the hunting site. For a shoulder mount, we advise visiting a professional taxidermist for caping to avoid damaging the hide. In cases of full-body mounts, the deer must be gutted first.
Choosing the Right Display Location
Consideration of where to mount the deer is as vital as the type of mount chosen. Deer mounts come in various sizes, and ensuring ample space for both the mount and surrounding area is essential.
What Makes a Quality Deer Mount?
Attention to Detail
A high-quality deer mount should not have visible gaps. This is particularly critical for antler mounts, where a seamless connection between the antlers and the base is expected. The hair should also sufficiently cover the base, maintaining a natural appearance.
Ease of Installation
Regardless of whether you mount the deer yourself or hire a taxidermist, ease of installation is paramount. A good mount will require minimal tools and effort for affixing it to the wall. Some antler mounts even allow you to place the antlers in after the base is secured.
Adjustment Features
If your mount needs to be positioned at a specific angle, look for adjustable mounts. Many shoulder mounts provide a bolt near the wall that allows rotation, enabling a viewing angle of at least 100 degrees. Additionally, multi-mount systems can accommodate multiple trophies with adjustable spacing between them.
Price Expectations for Deer Mounts
The cost of deer mounts varies based on type and materials. Antler and European mounts can range from £20 to £30, while shoulder wall mounts typically fall between £40 and £60.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Strength Should a Deer Mount Have?
A. The strength required depends on the type of mount and the surface it’s being affixed to. A shoulder mount should be able to support approximately 30 pounds, while antler mounts don’t require heavy-duty fixtures.
What is the Cost of Mounting a Deer Skull?
A. If you opt to do it yourself, it won’t typically exceed £50. However, professional cleaning by a taxidermist will likely range from £80 to £120, ensuring a thorough job without any residual matter.
Best Deer Mounts to Consider
Top Choice
Full Range Hanging Systems Wall-Mounted Corner Game Display
Key Features: This mount is designed for shoulder-mounted deer and offers the flexibility of rotation.
Advantages: Perfect for corner displays, it supports up to 35 pounds and is ideal for whitetail and mule deer. The 8-inch rotating arm provides versatility in display options.
Consideration: This mount is not designed for larger animals such as elk or moose.
Purchase Link: Available on Amazon
Best Value Option
Highwild European Mount Skull Hanger
Key Features: A straightforward, stylish solution for skull displays.
Advantages: Constructed from robust steel, this mount can be installed quickly and supports up to 20 pounds, making it suitable for whitetail or mule deer.
Consideration: It is not recommended for larger skulls like alligators.
Purchase Link: Available on Amazon
Noteworthy Option
Skull Hooker Little Hooker European Trophy Mount
Key Features: A solid solution for various animal skulls.
Advantages: The prong system fits securely into deer skulls, providing a stable display. The adjustable bolt allows for perfect angle adjustments.
Consideration: The skull does protrude from the mount, which may not appeal to everyone.
Purchase Link: Available on Amazon