Shoulder Mounts

DP Wild Artistry, led by Canadian taxidermist Derek Pearson, proudly provides authentic, life-like shoulder mounts. Specializing in North America’s most sought-after trophy animals such as deer, elk, moose, and bears, Derek also excels in working with exotic species from around the globe at his studio in Nanaimo, BC.

UNDERSTANDING THIS TAXIDERMY OPTION

What is Shoulder Mount?

A shoulder mount is a taxidermy piece that includes the head, neck, and upper shoulder area of the animal. This mount extends from the head down to just before the front legs, encompassing the front part of the shoulders and the top of the back. In addition to preserving these features, a shoulder mount comes with a back plate and mounting gear, making it ready for display on your wall. At DP Wild Artistry, we can create hundreds of unique positions for your mount, including alert poses, relaxed stances, or aggressive displays, ensuring your trophy captures the essence of the animal's natural behavior.

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Why Choose a Shoulder Mount?

Opting for a shoulder mount over a lifesize or half-size mount offers several advantages.

Economical and Space-Efficient

A shoulder mount is more economical and practical than a lifesize or half-size mount. It takes up minimal space in your home or office while still greatly capturing the essence of the animal. Lifesize and even half mounts generally come with habitats to keep them upright and store them properly, requiring a large area for display. In contrast, a shoulder mount is a more practical option for the average hunter, providing an impressive trophy without the need for extensive space.

Practical for Hunters

A shoulder mount requires less of the animal’s hide, making it easier to preserve enough material for a stunning final piece. This is particularly beneficial for hunters who hunt on foot and need to pack out their trophies. The reduced size and weight of the mount make it easier to transport and handle, ensuring that even in challenging hunting conditions, you can still bring home a beautiful representation of your achievement.

Field Dressing Tips For Best Results

Proper field dressing is crucial to ensure the quality of your shoulder mount. Here are some tips to help you prepare your trophy:

Leave Extra Hide

While shoulder mounts require less hide than lifesize or half mounts, it’s still smart to leave a little extra material. When skinning the animal, go past the necessary area to ensure you have enough hide for the taxidermist to work with. This extra material can make a significant difference in the final appearance of your mount.

Cool the Hide Quickly

Cooling the hide as fast as possible is essential to minimize damage. After skinning, place the hide in a cool, shaded area or use ice packs to reduce the temperature. This helps prevent bacterial growth and spoilage, preserving the quality of the hide for mounting.

Proper Cuts

Make your cuts clean and precise to avoid unnecessary damage to the hide. Start your incision from the center of the chest, running it down the belly to just before the rear legs. Make circular cuts around the front legs and a straight cut from the base of the skull to the center of the back, allowing you to peel the hide off smoothly.

Handle with Care

Handle the hide gently to avoid any tears or holes. Avoid dragging it on the ground or placing it in direct sunlight. Use a clean, dry cloth to pat down any blood or dirt, ensuring the hide remains in the best condition possible for mounting.

By following these field dressing tips, you can ensure that your shoulder mount will be of the highest quality, capturing the essence of your hunting experience.

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Why DP Wild Artistry?

We offer a quicker turnaround time by tanning all our own hides in-house, allowing for meticulous control over the process. Our shoulder mounts exceed expectations with their lifelike appearance, featuring realistic touches such as water droplets, tear ducts, and incredibly fine details, including the small bumps and glands on the deer's nose and intricate detailing around the tear glands. Discover the superior craftsmanship of DP Wild Artistry, where every mount is a masterpiece.