Bagging a whitetail deer is an unforgettable moment for any hunter, and deciding how to preserve that memory with the right whitetail deer mount is a big decision.
Whether you’re thinking about a classic shoulder mount, a half-body mount, or a full-body display, there are plenty of options to showcase your trophy.
So, what are your options?
Let’s take a look!
Types of Whitetail Deer Mounts for Your Trophy
The first step in deciding on a mount is to figure out what type you want.
The most common options for whitetail deer mounts are shoulder mounts, half-body mounts, and full-body mounts. Let’s break each of these down:
Shoulder Mounts
A shoulder mount is the most traditional and popular option for displaying a whitetail deer.
It includes the head, neck, and part of the shoulders.
This type of mount works well in almost any setting, whether it’s in a trophy room, living room, or office.
One of the reasons shoulder mounts are so popular is that they’re a more affordable option compared to full-body mounts.
But they still capture the essence of the deer.
Plus, they don’t take up as much space, which is great if you’re working with a smaller area.
Half-Body Mounts
A half-body mount includes more of the deer’s body than a shoulder mount.
You’ll get the head, neck, part of the chest, and sometimes a portion of the front legs.
This whitetail deer mount adds a bit more dimension to your display
It’s also a good middle-ground option between a shoulder mount and a full-body mount.
Half-body mounts are great if you have a bit more wall space and want a larger representation of your deer.
They’re often used to show the deer in action, like stepping over a log or looking around a tree.
This gives a dynamic and lifelike feel to the mount.
Full-Body Mounts
For the ultimate display, a full-body mount shows off the entire deer, from head to hooves.
This type of mount is perfect for hunters who want to showcase the full beauty of the animal and have the space to accommodate it.
Full-body mounts are typically placed on a pedestal or as a floor display.
They also tend to include elements of the deer’s natural habitat, like rocks, grass, or trees.
While this type of mount is more expensive and requires more space, it truly creates a stunning, lifelike representation of your trophy.
Head Positions: Choosing the Right Look
Once you’ve decided on the type of mount, the next step is choosing the head position.
This may seem like a small detail.
But it can make a big difference in how your deer looks once it’s mounted.
There are three main head positions to consider: upright, semi-sneak, and full-sneak.
Upright
In an upright mount, the deer’s head is held high, with the neck in a natural, alert position.
This pose gives the deer a proud, majestic look, making it a popular choice for many hunters.
Upright mounts are great if you want the deer to appear strong and dominant.
This mount works especially well for larger bucks with impressive antlers.
The upright position also helps the antlers stand out more, drawing attention to the size and shape of your trophy.
Semi-Sneak
A semi-sneak mount is one of the most popular poses for whitetail deer.
In this position, the deer’s head is slightly lowered, as if it’s calmly surveying its surroundings.
This gives the mount a more relaxed and natural feel compared to the upright position.
The semi-sneak position strikes a nice balance between alert and calm, making it a great option if you want a lifelike, approachable look for your mount. It also helps show off the neck and shoulders, which adds to the overall appeal.
Full-Sneak
A full-sneak mount positions the deer’s head and neck fully forward, as if the deer is moving or sneaking through the woods.
This is the most dramatic of the three head positions and works well if you’re looking for a more unique, action-oriented pose.
The full-sneak position is a great choice for hunters who want to capture a moment of movement and bring more energy to their mount.
However, keep in mind that this position requires a bit more wall space due to the forward-reaching neck.
Consider Your Space for the Perfect Whitetail Deer Mount
Before making a final decision, it’s important to think about where you’ll be displaying your mount.
If you have limited wall space, a shoulder mount or semi-sneak pose might be the best option.
On the other hand, if you have a large, dedicated trophy room or spacious living area, you might have more flexibility to go with a half-body or full-body mount.
Also, consider how your mount will look with other decorations or trophies.
You want to make sure it fits in nicely with the overall vibe of your space without feeling too cramped or out of place.
Show Off Your Trophy’s Unique Features
When deciding on the mount and head position, think about what you want to highlight.
If your deer has impressive antlers, you’ll want a pose that shows them off well, such as an upright or semi-sneak position.
If your deer has unique coloration or markings on its body, a half-body or full-body mount might be a better option to showcase those details.
At Turn’ER Wild Taxidermy, we take pride in working closely with each client to capture the spirit of their trophy and help them choose the perfect mount that reflects their hunting experience.
Final Tips for Choosing Your Whitetail Deer Mount
Choosing the right mount is a personal decision, but here are a few final tips to keep in mind:
- Budget: Full-body mounts are more expensive than shoulder mounts, so make sure to choose an option that fits within your budget.
- Space: Measure your wall space or display area before making your decision to ensure the mount will fit comfortably.
- Pose: Choose a pose that reflects how you remember the hunt and highlights the unique features of your deer.
No matter which option you choose, be sure that you prepare your trophy for your taxidermist!
When it comes to choosing a mount for your whitetail deer, the options are endless.
Whether you go with a traditional shoulder mount, a more dynamic half-body mount, or an impressive full-body mount, the key is to choose what works best for you and your space.
Stay wild, my Lehigh Valley friends!
At Turn’ER Wild Taxidermy, we’re here to help you make the right choice and bring your trophy to life with expert craftsmanship and attention to detail. If you’re unsure of what mount is best, feel free to drop us a message—we’d love to chat with you and help you create the perfect display for your whitetail deer!