Why not take some pictures of the hide and get the shoulder mount done that way you have both.

Thanks!

I vote against the shoulder mount. Show off that hide!

Mike

I would do the hide.

I'd do the hide. If the taxidermist offered to mount it free (or at his cost) and take it to some competitions, then I'd consider it. But I think the hide itself is more of what makes him special. Hide!

Hide

Now the question arises.... What if he can do both?Granted if money is an issue, then not but you can do both. Maybe something like this



and a rug.....

I'd go the full body route.

Tanning hide would be second choice. I'd rule out just a shoulder mount.

Full body would look really nice.

I too would say some sort of tanned hide. Like others have said, the shoulder mount would not show off all of the character like a tanned hide would do. I have never seen any hides done with the head attached like in the picture until now.....but that one really looks nice. And that way you would be able to show off the entire package in one shot...without the cost of a full mount.

I would tan the hide.If it was anexceptional buck I would do a full body mount.I think the displayed hide will be a lot more satisfying than a shoulder mount.

I would do a mount with the hide and head attached like that gentleman posted early in the post. On the other hand I bet if you let this guy do the shoulder mount and really convince him that you dont have any money(I am sure you do but its a great bargaining tool) If he really wants to take your deer to shows you can be garanteed of 1# he will do the best job he is capable of. 2# he needs your deer to enter into competition or to show off. Let him know your situation, there is always room for negotiation. especially if you have something he wants. but anyway I would get the skin and head mount if you can weasel a smoking deal out of him(and I bet you can).