Did you just bring home a magnificent set of antlers? That trophy represents a great hunt and a memory you want to keep forever. You have the antlers, but now what? Turning those raw antlers into a display piece can seem tricky. Many people get stuck choosing the right mounting kit. Some kits look cheap, others are too complicated, and you worry about getting it wrong.
Finding a kit that fits your style and budget can feel like a real challenge. You want something sturdy that shows off your antlers perfectly, not something that falls apart or looks messy. Don’t let the mounting process stop you from proudly displaying your hard-earned success!
This post breaks down everything you need to know about antler mounting kits. We will explore the different types available, what features matter most, and how to pick the perfect one for your needs. Get ready to choose a kit with confidence!
Top Antler Mounting Kit Recommendations
- Solid Walnut
- Quick and Easy to Use
- Instructions and Hardware Included
- Beautiful Satin Finish
- Made in the USA
- Sport Type: Hunting
- Wood Plaque
- Hunters Specialties Deer Antler Mounting Kit
- Easy To Use
- Aesthetic Centerpiece: this set of black walnut deer antler mounting kit is an art for those who appreciate aesthetics in their everyday lives, used for hanging animal skulls, game displays; It instantly becomes the centerpiece of any room, instantly elevating the space
- Flexible Adaptability: the deer skull stand panel measures approximately 11.81×7.87×0.59 inch/30×20×1.5 cm which can accommodate deer antler animal skull collectibles of various sizes; Designed for users who prefer european-style installation it provides flexible display space for collections of different sizes
- Easy Installation: the entire set of Deer Skull Mount Face Plate with hanging hooks comes with a installation kit, Includes a screwdriver, completely simplifying the complex assembly process; Whether you're experienced or not, installation is effortless, requiring no extra time or effort
- Quality Choice: crafted from solid wood these deer stand brackets offer sturdy and a warm soft feel ensuring they will last and retain their beauty over time; They not only provide excellent support but their refined appearance adds a touch of luxury to any collection
- Nice Craftsmanship: crafted with exquisite craftsmanship these deer mount plaques with hanging hooks combine deer skull elements with inlaid designs embodying the harmonious beauty of nature and art; They are an ideal addition to any collection and add a unique touch to any room's decor
- Wood Grain Laminated Finish
- Sturdy Plaque
- Engraveable Plate
- Skull Cover That Can Be Formed to Most Horn Configurations
- QUICK AND EASY: Attach the antlers of a harvested deer (or shed antlers) to the Skull Master for a quick, clean, and simple European mount. Hangs securely from a key-hole screw slot on the back of the skull -or- pairs perfectly with the Skull Master Deer Positioner or Skull Master Ultra Positioner (sold separately).
- REALISTIC: The Skull Master was 3D modeled from a real deer skull to capture true-to-life accuracy, fine detail, and realism of the bone structure. Made from shatter-resistant, high-density, durable injection molded plastic. Available in a classic Bone White finish -or- choose from 4 options of hydro-dipped patterns, to fit with any style of home or cabin decor.
- UNIVERSAL SIZING: The Skull Master system includes 3 interchangeable skull caps (sub -3 ½” antler bases | 3 ½” - 5” antler bases | 5”+ antler bases) for mounting ANY size deer antlers.
- LESS MESS: No boiling, beetles, or harsh chemicals, simply attach antlers to the Skull Master to complete your mount.
- SAVE MONEY: The entire Skull Master system is a fraction of the cost of traditional taxidermy.
- USE. A solid finished Pine mounting kit that works for Whitetail and Mule Deer Antlers. Each piece will be different due to the grain structure and knots in Pine.
- SIZE. Approximate assembled size is 10 in. x 8 in. x 2.5 in.
- INCLUDED. Instructions and all hanging and assembly hardware
- MADE. Proudly made in Wisconsin, USA from American grown wood.
- Solid Red Oak
- Quick and Easy to Use
- Instructions and Hardware Included
- Beautiful Satin Finish
- Made in the USA
- Shed Spreader is a universal antler mounting skull plate kit for deer that is compatible with your own harvested antlers or shed antlers
- Kit comes with two different size interchangeable top sections so you can choose which size fits your antlers best.
- Kit also includes all hardware needed to attach a set of antlers in a timely, no mess fashion
- Ralph & Vicki Cianciarulo, North America's Favorite Hunting Couple , proudly endorse both our deer and elk models. Their hunting television show, Archer's Choice, can be seen on the Outdoor Channel.
- Natural finish
Your Essential Guide to Choosing the Best Antler Mounting Kit
Congratulations on a successful hunt! Now you want to display your trophy proudly. An antler mounting kit is the perfect way to turn those antlers into a stunning wall mount. But which kit should you choose? This guide will help you select the best one for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
A good antler mounting kit has several important features. These features ensure your mount looks professional and lasts for years.
1. Skull Plate or Pedestal Style
- Skull Plate Kits: These kits cover the base of the antlers, making it look like the skull is still attached. They are very traditional and popular. Look for kits that match the size of your deer or elk skull.
- Pedestal or European Mount Kits: These often use a separate decorative plaque. They let you display just the cleaned skull and antlers. Check if the kit includes the mounting hardware for the plaque itself.
2. Ease of Assembly
Some kits are very simple to put together. Others require more drilling or shaping. If you are new to mounting, choose a kit labeled “Easy-to-Assemble” or “No-Drill Required” for the antlers themselves.
3. Included Hardware and Tools
The best kits provide everything you need. Check the box contents. You want screws, anchors, and detailed instructions. Sometimes, the base plate is included, but you might need to buy the actual mounting board separately.
Important Materials Matter
The materials used in the kit greatly affect the look and durability of your mount.
Base Material
- Faux Bone/Resin: Many modern kits use durable resin molded to look like real bone. This material resists cracking and is lightweight.
- Wood: The backing board (plaque) is usually made of solid wood or high-density fiberboard (HDF). Darker woods like walnut or oak often look richer.
Finish Quality
The finish needs to look realistic. High-quality kits use realistic paint jobs on the skull cap, mimicking the texture and color of real bone. Poorly painted kits look fake and cheap.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes one kit better than another? It usually comes down to fit and finish.
Quality Boosters:
- Precise Fit: The skull plate must fit snugly against the base of the antler burrs. A tight fit hides gaps, which improves the overall look.
- Good Adhesives/Epoxy: If the kit requires you to attach the antlers to a base, ensure strong epoxy is recommended or included. This prevents drooping over time.
Quality Reducers:
- Plastic Components: Avoid kits that use thin, cheap plastic for structural parts. These can warp under temperature changes.
- Inconsistent Sizing: If the skull cap is too small for your specific deer size, forcing it on can crack the piece or leave unsightly gaps. Always check the size guide.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where you plan to hang your trophy and how comfortable you are with DIY projects.
Beginner Mounts:
If this is your first time, choose a simple, all-in-one kit. These kits often have pre-drilled holes and clear diagrams. They help you avoid common beginner mistakes.
Advanced Displays:
Experienced taxidermists or hobbyists might prefer kits that allow customization. They might buy a plain wooden plaque and a separate, high-detail resin skull cap, allowing them to stain or finish the wood exactly how they want.
Placement Considerations:
Consider the weight. Heavy mounts need strong wall anchors. Lighter resin kits are easier to hang securely, even on drywall.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Antler Mounting Kits
Q: What size kit do I need?
A: You need a kit sized for the animal. A “Small” or “Medium” kit works for most whitetail deer. Larger animals like Elk or Moose require “Large” or specialized kits, as their skull bases are much wider.
Q: Do I need to clean the skull myself before using the kit?
A: Yes, usually. Most kits provide the cover plate, but you must clean the actual skull cap and antlers first. You need to remove all tissue and grease before mounting.
Q: Can I paint the skull cap if I don’t like the color provided?
A: Absolutely. Most resin or plastic skull plates take spray paint very well. Use a primer first for the best results.
Q: How long does it take to mount antlers using a standard kit?
A: If you have the antlers already cleaned and prepped, assembly usually takes less than an hour. The longest part is allowing any glue or epoxy to fully cure, which might take 24 hours.
Q: Are these kits safe for outdoor mounting?
A: Most standard kits are designed for indoor use. Exposure to rain and direct sun can cause wood to warp or fade the resin finish. If you must mount outside, look for kits specifically rated for exterior use or apply a marine-grade clear sealant over the entire finished mount.
Q: What is the difference between a pedestal mount and a wall mount kit?
A: A wall mount kit attaches flat against the wall. A pedestal mount usually involves a plaque that sits on a narrow, vertical stand, allowing you to display the mount away from the wall or on a shelf.
Q: Will the antlers stay securely attached forever?
A: When installed correctly using the provided screws and strong adhesive, they should stay secure for decades. Temperature swings can sometimes cause slight shifting over many years.
Q: What if my antlers are slightly asymmetrical?
A: High-quality kits offer some wiggle room in the screw placement or have flexible backing pads. If the asymmetry is minor, you can usually adjust the angle slightly when securing them to the backing board.
Q: Do I have to use the provided screws, or can I use my own?
A: It is best to use the screws provided, as they are sized correctly for the thickness of the skull plate. If you substitute them, ensure your new screws are not too long, or they might poke through the front of the mount!
Q: Where should I hang my finished mount?
A: Hang it away from direct heat sources like fireplaces or strong direct sunlight. Consistent room temperature keeps your mount looking its best.