CAPING FOR A SHOULDER MOUNT

1. With a sharp knife slit the hide circling the body behind the shoulder at approximately the mid-way point of the rib cage behind the front legs. Slit the skin around the legs just above the knees. An additional slit will be needed from the back of the leg and joining the body cut joining the legs. (See linked Figure 2A and 2B).

2. Peel the skin forward up to the ears and jaw exposing the head / neck junction. Cut into the neck approximately 3 inches down from this junction. Circle the neck cutting down to the spinal column. After this cut is complete, grasp the antler bases and twist the head off the neck. This should allow the hide to be rolled up and put in a freezer until transported to my studio. These cuts should allow ample hide for E. Bucci Taxidermy to work with in mounting. Remember, I can cut off excess hide but I can't replace what I don't have.

Also - Avoid dragging your deer out of the woods with a rope. This method can easily damage the hide while dragging over sticks, stones and unforeseen debris on the forest floor, possibly covered by snow. Use a sled whenever possible.