Thanks for the input, guys. I'm leaning toward leaving it as is.


My taxidermists have aged all three based on looking at their teeth. The two on the left were 5 1/2, the one on the right was 4 1/2. On our lease, since 2006, the rule has been "try not to shoot anything younger than 4 1/2." Prior to that, the minimum was 3 1/2. The 2008 buck looks particularly young because his cape was screwed up, so I had to buy a replacement cape from the taxidermist. I think he used a cape from a 2 1/2 year old...

These are Texas Hill Country deer. A "big" buck in the area I hunt only weighs about 150 lbs.

IPSC, those are all fine deer. The ear thing is not a big deal...IMO.

All 3 look good but I have to agree to some others, I'm not sure I like the ears.

I really like it!It is something different most taxidermist's put the mount in the "alert" pose this is a refreshing change!

JP I remember when you made the post about this buck...I think I might have commented it too....anyway, I like the mount...I think the cape does make him look a lil young, but the ear I like....It gives it character. those are some nice bucks ya go too!
-Jake

I do see how the ear can be bothering you, cuz its the first thing I notice as well. It looks good though, and like previously stated I have seen MUCH worse mounts.

Nice deer, good job.

About the "EAR". I dont know why most everyone seem to think the deer ears face the same direction all day. It would have been better if it faced up a bit more but the more mounts you get you will need to get a " little" more creative with them, it gives them character. On your next mount just have him not get to drastic with the ears. Try having them back or just even a slight curve with one ear like he is listening to the side a bit. I dont think the deer necks are too "thin" either. If the are not getting ready for the rut yet they wont be very bulky yet.

Not a fan of the ear. He should have asked before he done it. It would make me mad also.

Its a good looking deer but id have to have the ear fixednot only cause itbothers me but cause tha taxidermist didnt get my approval befor he done it, that will cause people not to use him if he keeps that up.