Well I had a nice 8pt that had a horrible mount done on it about 7 yrs ago. One day I was sitting there and couldn't stand it anymore and pulled it off the wall and took the rack off and tossed the rest.

I then went onto the van dykes website and bought a mounting kit for pretty cheap. I bought a cape from a local taxi. I started it sat and was done sun. It took me about 10 hrs. It wasn't as hard as I thought it would be. The hardest part is the detailing on the eyes, nose. I wouldn't say by any means I'm a taxidermist, but I impressed myself. This is what he looked like before I sent an arrow through him.

Tell me what you guys think. Don't hold back I'm learning, and need the help.

Not bad for your first deer. I would suggest getting plenty of reference photos, and also go to www.taxidermytrainingunlimited.com , pick up one of their really good DVD's. The only thing I notice right off from the picture is the ear location and hair pattern. Look at the location of the ear on the photo of the deer in your Avatar picture and compare it to your deer mount. Especially, where the top of the ear muscle meets the head. Good Luck!

I am no expert at all. I think you did a fine job. I have a friend that has one that looks like the deer had a hundred bad face lifts. So I know what you are talking about. If you have any before pics I am sure we all would like to see them to compare.

Well thanks for the comment AllTLK4. It's new to me and it's something I've wanted to do since I was 10. 43 I didn't even notice the ear bases. I looked at my mounts I have and yup bases are too small. Lesson learned for next time. I'm hooked though and have another big 8 pt i shot in MN and are gonna mount him next. Wheres the best place to find capes like lets say MN. I know how to tan hides but don't have any right now.

Once I get better I have 6 yotes and a 45 lbs bobcat tanned I shot in CO when I was stationed there to mount. But I don't wanna attempt it until I gedt better.

I think you did a great job. It looks very good and you did it yourself!!
Congratulations!! Doc
ps, I think it deserves a bigger picture

Check Taxidermy Net. There are usually some capes available there.

Thanks Doc

i have seen alot worse good job!