CHOOSING A TAXIDERMIST

Selecting a qualified taxidermist to preserve your trophy is a very important and tough decision.  Not all taxidermists are created equally. There is no standardized criteria that makes each taxidermist have equal abilities. Some are excellent at what they do and others are poor.  In the end, it is your responsiblity to choose the taxidermist that will make you proud of the trophy you hang on the wall.

There are several criteria you should investigate before leaving your trophy with a taxidermist; these range from abilities to price. Yes, price should be the last thing on the list. Too many times a customer is solely concerned with price. Normally, low discount pricing reflects poor quality and lack of experience. Most taxidermists with above average abilities will charge accordingly. Do not make your decision based upon price alone. "The bitterness of low quality remains long after the sweetness of low price is forgotten."

Ability is at the top of the list. Choose a taxidermist that has the ability to make your trophy look like it is 'alive' once again. Take time to visit a prospective taxidermist and learn more about him or her.  Ask to see examples of their work. Look at the detail areas such as the eyes, nose, mouth, ears and brisket area. Pay no attention to the horns or antlers.  Ask for references of previous clients with similar specimens. See if the taxidermist is striving to better his or her education.  Many state or national organizations hold various seminars and workshops to help their membership improve. Most states and national organizations have certification programs that have a regime of qualifications to be considered a Certified Taxidermist. Does your taxidermist actively participate in competitions? If so, ask them how they have fared. Blue ribbons, special awards and titles are very good indications that their peers believe they are an excellent taxidermist. 

Time is another factor. Many times too much emphasis is put on time.  Most good taxidermists are extremely backlogged. Patience will pay off in the end. Take that into consideration next time you ask "How long will it be?" Six months to a year is not uncommon for a good taxidermist.

The above picture is an example of how not all taxidermists are created equally.
Notice how clean the skull plate is on these antlers.  All of the blood, meat, and connective tissue has been removed.
I place high priority on beginning the mounting process with a clean skull plate.  This aids in the longevity of the mount.
What is under your deer's skin matters to me. I like to use quality materials to produce the best looking mount for your trophy animal.
I'll only have your deer for a short time to produce the mount that will be in your hands for a lifetime.