Trophy Care - Steve Germans Taxidermy
The Importance of Proper Trophy Care
When it comes to preserving the memory of a successful hunting trip, proper trophy care is essential. At Steve Germans Taxidermy, a trusted taxidermy service provided by David Luke Taxidermy, we understand the value that hunters place on their trophies, and we have perfected the art of preserving and mounting them with precision and care.
Expert Tips for Trophy Care
To ensure your hunting trophies stand the test of time and maintain their beauty, here are some expert tips to follow:
- Quick Field Preparation: After harvesting your trophy, it's crucial to start the preservation process immediately. Field dress the animal and remove any internal organs to avoid decomposition. This step is crucial in preventing hair slippage and rotting.
- Skinning: Proper skinning techniques are crucial for preserving the quality of your trophy. Make incisions in areas that can easily be concealed, such as beneath the animal's legs or along its back. Be careful not to damage the hide during this process.
- Caping: Caping involves removing the skin from the animal's head, neck, and shoulders while leaving the skull intact. This technique is common for mounting deer heads and other similar trophies.
- Cooling and Preservation: After skinning or caping, it's important to cool the hide as quickly as possible to prevent spoilage. Place the hide in a cool, dry area or keep it refrigerated until you can properly prepare it for mounting or tanning.
- Choosing a Taxidermist: When selecting a taxidermist, it's crucial to choose a reputable professional like David Luke Taxidermy at Steve Germans Taxidermy. Look for expertise, years of experience, and positive reviews to ensure your trophy receives the highest level of care and attention.
- Mounting Options: Depending on your preferences, there are various mounting options available. From full-body mounts to shoulder mounts or European mounts, discuss your desired outcome with the taxidermist to determine the best option for your trophy.
Preserving Specific Types of Trophies
Deer Trophies
Deer hunting is a popular pastime, and preserving the beauty of deer trophies requires specific techniques. When preparing your deer trophy for mounting:
- Antler Care: If you possess antlered deer trophies, it's crucial to store them in a cool, dry area to prevent the growth of mold or mildew. Inspect the antlers regularly and use an antler-specific polish to maintain their natural shine.
- Skull Cleaning: For European mounts, proper skull cleaning is essential. Boil the skull in water with added cleansers to remove any flesh or tissue. Once cleaned, whiten the skull with peroxide for an aesthetically pleasing result.
- Meat Handling: When handling the meat of a harvested deer, it's important to properly process and store it. This ensures its quality for consumption and avoids any health-related risks.
Big Game Trophies
Preserving big game trophies requires extra care due to their sheer size. Here are some considerations:
- Proper Storage: Big game trophies often take up significant space. Ensure you have adequate storage facilities to maintain their overall condition and safeguard against damage.
- Transportation: When transporting big game trophies, exercise caution to prevent any structural damage. Properly secure the trophy and avoid excessive movement during transportation.
- Cleaning: Regularly clean and dust your big game trophies to preserve their appearance and prevent the buildup of dirt or grime.
Conclusion
At Steve Germans Taxidermy, David Luke Taxidermy goes above and beyond to provide exemplary trophy care services. By following the expert tips outlined above, you can ensure your hunting trophies remain in pristine condition and continue to be cherished for years to come. With our expertise and your commitment to proper trophy care, you can proudly display your hunting achievements and relive the memories of your successful hunts.
