How to Cape a Deer

[CFFT]

I am often asked how to cape deer for shoulder mounts, so I have set up a page with simple step by step info and diograms on my website on 'how to' I know I am not the first but I hope it is found useful
..and just to add this is My preference and I recommend hunters to speak to their Taxidermist in advance.
Claire
http://freedomtaxidermy.co.uk/HowtoCapeDeer.aspx

 

[243varmint]

A very usefull guide Claire

Thank you

Jonathon

 

[stone]

Hi Cllaire
Thats how I would normally do it

a few pics of a PD that was done that way ( not by me )
Skinning the trophy for a full shoulder mount
first remove the front legs at the knuckles

then cut the skin around the whole body around chest and back

carefully but quickly peeling it down

using a knife, if and when needed

now start to pull the skin from around the front legs

down the neck

to as near the base of the skull then cut it off , fold the skin up nicely around the head keeping the ears tucked in
pack in a blak bag and freeze ASAP to prevent the hair slipping
then you can perform the gralloch with out Damaging or getting the skin too dirty

Nice site by the way

 

[CFFT]

A very usefull guide Claire

Thank you

Jonathon

You're welcome Jonathon

and Great photos Stone, all useful images

 

[6pointer]

Please remeber that if you want a trophy cape shot placement is important head and sholder shots are a no no. lung would be best i feel.

 

[Bill Bartlett]

Please remeber that if you want a trophy cape shot placement is important head and sholder shots are a no no. lung would be best i feel.

x 2 6pointer. Head, neck and shoulder shots are out if you want a nice clean mount.

 

[CFFT]

Personally I wouldn't be too hasty in disregarding the above. Capes are not easy to source.
I'd say if in doubt still tube it and give to the taxidermist to decide on suitability (unless it is plain obvious!) afterall it is dependant on the ability of their skills that will save it or not. Or could just be pure luck in this sort of instance like where I had a Sika come in with a neck shot but no exit. Granted shaggy capes can be a bonus in hidding their flaws but none the less..!
I would not turn down a shoulder or neck shot cape, it can often be remedied with care, skill and cleverness.

 

[CFFT]

pics of an example showing a ragged exit hole and hair blown off above. Second pic is of same cape finished..