What Questions for Taxidermist?

karabiner · 08-22-2007, 05:07 PM

The taxidermist who has done my birds etc. in the past, has closed shop, so I'm starting to study/ shop around for a new person. Besides the common sense questions, are there any technical questions to ask that could separate the good from mediocre. Just for example, is there a better deer eye brand vs another? Any red flags? When looking at someone's displays (deer), what are the keys areas that show quality craftsmanship? Thanks, Bob

vaslugger · 08-22-2007, 07:31 PM

Hey Robert-Here is a site that you can go to and have
all your questions answered by looking at the mounts
and reading the posts on the forums.You will find some
of the best taxidermists in the world there.Just go to
the new forums section of site.You will learn more about
good taxidermy there in 2 days than anyone could explain
to you in a lifetime.There are some great taxidermists in
your state.Its www.taxidermy.net Take care! Mike

karabiner · 08-23-2007, 02:55 PM

Thanks for the link.

979Hunter · 09-02-2007, 08:46 PM

I would ask if they tan their skins or not, a good quality mount that is going to last will need to be tanned! Also ask if they do it or if they send it to a tanner? If they send it out ask who does them and make sure its a reputable tannery.

Bill Yox · 09-05-2007, 04:32 PM

What youll soon find is this...nobody agrees! Tell a guy who does his own skins that you want tannery skin, and he will give his opinion. Same goes for the eye brand you mentioned as an example. The bottom line is this...dont ask us taxidermists to tell you who is the (perceived) best, go look at the guys work, not his credentials. If the work pleases you then he most likely is the guy (or gal) to pursue further. Then make sure hes reputable in business practice, his price is what you can justify (note I didnt say afford) and that his return time is what you can wait for. Just as an example, Im over 2 years out, so impatient guys avoid me like the plague! But, theres some guys who do decent stuff within a year! Thats nice! Once you figure in all this, and also love the work...thats your taxidermist choice!