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Old 09-17-2008 | 06:58 PM
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nctaxi
Nontypical Buck
 
Joined: Jan 2005
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Default RE: Van Dykes Kits The Best Out There?

salt - this is going to sound discouraging but Iam going to tell it the way I see it and have experienced it. Van Dykes kits are good for someone who does it infrequently. They work but have their problems. That being said, ducks are a whole different ball of wax. A duck contains may oils and fats that they use for insulation and for waterproofing. If a duck is not thoroughly cleaned, you will have a greasy, dripping mess. Now I won't say that there aren't guys out there whobutcher a duck mount and call it a mount but realistically a duck is harder to mount than most think. You can get it on the form and it may look good but if it isn't cleaned and degreased, between every feather quill, you will be opening the door to every taxidermist nightmare - the dreaded dermestid beetle. And another thing to help discourage you (not really) but I know many a more experienced taxidermist with the proper equipment who had the hardest time mounting a wood duck, they refered to it as "trying to flesh wet toilet paper".
After saying all this, you should give it a try. If you enjoyed your first experience you may be on your way to a career in taxidermy. I know above that it appears that I am trying to steer you away from it, I am just trying to let you know what you are in for. Go for it. If I can help with any questions, let me know.
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