Deer hunting is a lot of fun, and hopefully, after a successful hunt, you have some deer antlers that you can proudly display as a reminder of an amazing hunt. Taxidermy has a deep history across the world, and many generations proudly displayed their deer on their walls for others to admire. There are many different ways to display your deer, and not all taxidermy options are insanely expensive like most would believe. You also do not have to reserve taxidermy for only trophies as others believe. No matter what size of deer you have, let’s take a look at some different taxidermy options and how much they will cost.
1. Antler Mount
Basic antler mounts are easily the cheapest and most simple form of displaying your deer’s rack. Not only is it cheap, but it is easy to do yourself without the need for any special tools or training. Costs are very low, and this method will usually run you anywhere from $10 to $30 if you do it yourself, and around $50 to $75, if you have a taxidermist, do it for you. Either way, they look good and you will not have to wait very long to have your antlers up on the wall!
2. Skull Mount
Another easy way to display your deer is to clean out the skull and do a skull mount. This is also known as a European mount. This is also a method that you can either do yourself with a little bit of time or pay a professional to do for you. If you choose to go DIY, you probably already have the tools needed for the job and it won’t cost you anything. Commercial costs will run anywhere from $75 to $150.
3. Shoulder Mount
When most people think of mounting a deer, this is what they think of. This is easily the most popular, but it is somewhat difficult to do yourself and most people will pay an expert to do it. A taxidermist will charge anywhere from $500 to $800 for this service.
4. Pedestal Mount
Similar to a shoulder mount, this method puts the deer on a pedestal instead of on the wall. This saves on wall space but can take up floor space instead. Prices are similar to should mounts, with the additional cost of the pedestal unless you make it yourself. Expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $1000 for this style.
5. Full Body Mount
Last but not least, you have the full-body mount. This involves mounting the entire body of the deer. As you would expect, this is the most expensive and largest of the methods and will take up the most space. Expect to pay anywhere from $1500 to $3000 depending on the taxidermist.
Final Thoughts
Mounting your deer is a special way of always reliving the memories whenever you see it, so if you have the chance, there is sure to be a way to fits within your style and budget.
For more great ideas on how to fish and hunt from the experts, check out the awesome articles on our Bradley Smoker Hunting & Fishing Blog for more great tips & tricks.
