Gear: DIY Taxidermy Solutions

by
posted on March 17, 2020
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
gear-diy-taxidermy-solutions_lead.jpg

Why spend the money when great taxidermy can be done at home for less? The following five products will help you get the job done right. 

Hunter Specialties Three Beard Mounting Plaque

Hunters Specialties Three Beard Mounting Plaque
Made of stained solid oak, this fan-mounting kit comes complete with all necessary hardware and easy-to-follow instructions to display your trophy bird in a manner befitting its beauty. Rig it with up to three beards, spurs and an engravable nameplate (included) so everyone knows where the old tom met his maker. MSRP: $24.99; hunterspec.com.

Skull Hooker Big Hooker Trophy Mount

Skull Hooker Big Hooker
Not everyone has the room, or the cash, for a full shoulder elk mount. And with a trophy this large, display options can be limited. Built for the big boys, the Big Hooker utilizes a minimalist design that is as classy as it is sturdy. With adjustable prongs and a rotating mounting arm, you can customize the angle of your skull to fit any space. MSRP: $59.99; skullhooker.com.

Mountain Mike's Europlaque Skull Mounting System

Mountain Mike's Europlaque
Create a desktop design element or a wall-hanging trophy with this two-in-one European deer skull mounting system. With only a few tools, a DIY work of art can be completed for a fraction of the cost of a pro's fee and result in a mount you’ll be proud to place in your home or office. With all components included, the only thing you’ll need is time, and not much of it. MSRP: $42; masterofskulls.com.

The Tannery Inc. Skull Bleaching Kit

The Tannery Inc. Skull Bleaching Kit
This handy kit contains a degreasing solution (used in the boil) to help remove fat and flesh from your skull in preparation for a Euro mount. Once that’s done, mix the included bleaching powder with household hydrogen peroxide to create a paste that’ll turn that skull trophy white. Components are nontoxic, and the kit contains enough product to clean and bleach up to two deer-size skulls. MSRP: $34.99; cabelas.com.

Bass Pro Shops 30-Quart Propane Turkey Fryer

Bass Pro Shops 30-quart Propane Turkey Fryer
As you’ll soon find out, a turkey fryer is useful for a lot more than dinner. In fact, once you use one to boil and prep a skull for Euro mounting, you’ll save some cash with fewer trips to the taxidermist. This propane fryer comes with a 30-quart aluminum pot, perfect for even large elk skulls, and a stable stand with rails to keep the pot in place. MSRP: $69.99; basspro.com.

Latest

LEDE Chest Pack Hoodie Pants
LEDE Chest Pack Hoodie Pants

First Look: Blocker Outdoors Finisher Series

Blocker Outdoors' Finisher Series is a one stop shop for turkey hunters looking to streamline their clothing and gear in the field. Read on for some of the top pieces in this lineup, designed to keep hunters cool and comfortable, while maintaining easy access to essentials.

Know How: Shed Hunting Hellholes

Mark Kayser's fascination with shed antler hellholes kicked off and continues today in whitetail country. Not satisfied with the occasional shed antler found in stubble fields, hay grounds and open pastures, he turned his attention to the thickest, steepest and nastiest geography in the whitetail woods. Here’s why you should consider putting on your big boy pants for a deep dive into the extremes for shed antler rewards.

New for 2026: Federal X Henry Birthday Boy Collector's Edition Ammo

For 2026, Federal Ammunition has partnered with Henry Repeating Arms to produce a collector's series ammunition. This limited-edition load was developed for Henry's commemorative .45-70 Government Golden Boy lever-action rifle, touted as the Birthday Boy.

New for 2026: Badlands Mag Turkey Vest

Badlands has released its Mag Turkey Vest, purpose-built for run-and-gun turkey hunters.

#SundayGunday: Spartan Vidarr Disc-Lok Bipod

On this week's #SundayGunday, we’re checking out a new entry from Spartan Precision Equipment that heralds a whole new line of gear from the innovative brand. The Vidarr bipod utilizes a brand new attachment system called Disc-Lok. Why create a whole new system, you ask? Well, if Spartan's MagnaSwitch is the ultralight QD system for hunters looking to travel light, the Disc-Lok adds a few more ounces in pursuit of extreme stability. Learn more about it in this exclusive video.

Public Opportunity on Private Land: Walk-in Access Programs

State game managers have come up with an array of walk-in access programs for private lands. These state-led initiatives partner with willing landowners to open thousands—sometimes millions—of acres of land to the public at little or no extra cost. Read on for some of the best options in the country.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.