Does that impressive rack of antlers you harvested gather dust in a corner? You have the trophy, the memory of the hunt, but now you face the challenge of displaying it proudly. Choosing the right antler mounting kit can feel like a confusing maze. You want something that looks professional and honors your accomplishment, but sorting through different styles, materials, and instructions can quickly become frustrating.
Many hunters face this exact problem. They worry about kits that are flimsy, difficult to assemble, or don’t do justice to the size and beauty of their unique find. A poorly mounted set of antlers can quickly diminish the impact of a great hunt. You deserve a display that lasts and truly showcases your hard work.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what makes a great antler mounting kit and show you the key features to look for. By the end of this post, you will know precisely which kit fits your antlers and your style, turning that dusty set into a centerpiece you’ll admire for years.
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
- Solid Red Oak
- Quick and Easy to Use
- Instructions and Hardware Included
- Beautiful Satin Finish
- Made in the USA
- 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. Antlers are not included - you have to supply them.
- MADE. Proudly made in Wisconsin, USA from American grown wood.
- Wood Grain Laminated Finish
- Sturdy Plaque
- Engraveable Plate
- Skull Cover That Can Be Formed to Most Horn Configurations
- EZ MOUNT HORN BRACKET: Designed to mount deer-sized game, showcasing antlers while preserving their natural attachment to the skull.
- ADJUSTABLE DISPLAY: Customize the tilt of the antlers to desired angle to enhance the presentation.
- SWINGING BRACKET: Allows the bracket to swing side to side, enhancing the dynamic display.
- SOLID STEEL CONSTRUCTION: Crafted from durable steel, ensuring durability and long-term use.
- ALL-INCLUSIVE MOUNTING KIT: Includes screws and drywall anchors for a hassle-free setup and easy installation.
- EASY INSTALLATION - Just drill a hole up into the pedicle of each antler, attach them to the top section with the included screws, then secure the top section to the bottom, and you can proceed with mounting your antlers on a plaque or another taxidermy project!
- CLEAN DISPLAY - Great for match sets of sheds, original European mounts or skull caps with breaks of cracks
- DURABLE - Made of high strength injection molded polymer
- Each kit includes 2 sizes to best fit your antlers
Your 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 makes this process easy. This guide helps you pick the perfect kit for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, several features make a kit better or worse. Look closely at what each package offers.
1. Ease of Installation
A good kit should be simple to use. Look for kits that come with clear, step-by-step instructions. Some kits even include helpful videos online. If you are a beginner, prioritize ease of use.
2. Included Components
Check what comes inside the box. The best kits include everything you need. This usually means a mounting plaque, hardware (screws and anchors), and sometimes a skull cap or cover. Extra parts mean less shopping later.
3. Versatility and Size
Does the kit fit your antlers? Measure the base spread of your antlers. Ensure the plaque or shield is large enough to look balanced with your trophy. Some kits fit small deer, while others support large elk racks.
Important Materials Matter
The materials used affect how long your mount lasts and how it looks.
- Plaque Material: Most plaques are made of wood, like oak or pine. Real wood looks classic and strong. Plastic plaques are cheaper but might look less realistic.
- Finishes: Look for durable finishes. A good finish protects the wood from dust and moisture. Darker stains often hide imperfections better than lighter ones.
- Hardware: Screws and brackets must be strong. They hold the weight of the antlers. Make sure the metal parts resist rust.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality isn’t just about the price tag. Certain details significantly impact the final look.
What Improves Quality:
- Realistic Skull Cap: Many kits include a faux skull cap. High-quality caps look very lifelike, showing bone texture and color.
- Beveled Edges: Plaques with nicely cut, smooth, or “beveled” edges look professional. Sharp, rough edges reduce the mount’s appeal.
- Accurate Color Matching: If the kit includes a cover or paint, ensure the colors match real bone.
What Reduces Quality:
Cheap kits often use thin, flimsy cardboard instead of solid wood for the backing. Also, poorly molded plastic skull caps look obviously fake. Avoid kits where the screws look weak or too shiny.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to display your mount affects your choice.
User Experience:
Most users report satisfaction when the instructions are clear. If you struggle with tools, choose a kit that uses simple assembly. Experienced taxidermists might prefer buying components separately for a custom look, but beginners should stick to all-in-one kits.
Use Cases:
- Home Display: If the mount goes in a living room, choose a high-quality wooden plaque with a rich stain.
- Man Cave/Garage: A simpler, perhaps plastic or composite kit works well here.
- Quick Projects: If you need a mount done fast for a gift or temporary display, focus only on speed and ease of assembly.
Antler Mounting Kit FAQ
Q: What tools do I usually need besides what is in the kit?
A: You usually need a drill, a screwdriver, and sometimes a pencil for marking wall holes. Always check the kit manual first.
Q: Can I use this kit on shed antlers?
A: Yes, most kits work fine for shed antlers, but you must clean the base thoroughly first. The kit secures the base where it was attached to the skull.
Q: Are these kits safe for very heavy antlers, like elk?
A: Check the weight limit listed by the manufacturer. Large elk or moose antlers require very sturdy brackets. Smaller deer kits might not support the weight safely.
Q: How long does it take to mount a set of antlers?
A: For a beginner following directions, the actual mounting process often takes less than an hour once the antlers are cleaned and prepped.
Q: What is the skull cap for?
A: The skull cap covers the rough, cut end of the antler base. It creates a smooth, natural-looking transition onto the display plaque.
Q: Do I need to clean the antlers before mounting?
A: Absolutely! You must remove all meat, tissue, and grease from the base. This stops the antlers from smelling bad or attracting bugs later.
Q: Can I paint the plaque if I do not like the color?
A: Yes, most standard wood plaques take paint very well. Lightly sand the surface before applying new paint for the best result.
Q: What if my antlers do not fit the pre-drilled holes?
A: This happens often! You will need to drill new holes yourself. Ensure the new holes align perfectly with the mounting bracket on the back of the plaque.
Q: How do I clean dust off the finished mount later?
A: Use a soft, dry cloth or a can of compressed air (like those used for cleaning keyboards). Avoid harsh chemical cleaners near the bone material.
Q: Are wall anchors included for drywall mounting?
A: Many good kits include plastic anchors for drywall. If your antlers are very heavy, you should use stronger anchors or drill directly into a wall stud for maximum security.
Melody Smith is a passionate writer, outdoor enthusiast, and camping expert based in the Seattle Metropolitan Area. With a deep love for nature and adventure, she shares her personal experiences, tips, and insights on MyCampingPro.com. A seasoned camper and traveler, Melody combines her creative background in design and writing with her love for the great outdoors, offering practical advice and inspiring stories to help others make the most of their outdoor experiences. When she’s not exploring the wilderness, you can find her painting, collecting vintage treasures, or diving into a good book.