That majestic rack from your last hunt deserves a place of honor. But how do you turn those impressive antlers into a showpiece? The thought of drilling, shaping, and securing can feel overwhelming, right? Many hunters face this exact challenge, unsure which antler mounting kit is best for their trophy. You want something that looks great and is easy to use, but the sheer variety of kits out there can leave you scratching your head.
Choosing the wrong kit can lead to a wobbly mount, a less-than-perfect display, or even damage to your hard-earned antlers. It’s a common frustration that can put a damper on celebrating your hunting success. But don’t worry, we’re here to help you navigate this decision with confidence. By the end of this post, you’ll have a clear understanding of what makes a great antler mounting kit and how to pick the perfect one for your trophy.
Let’s dive in and discover how to transform your antlers into a stunning display you’ll be proud of for years to come. We’ll break down the key features to look for and guide you through the selection process so you can get to the fun part: mounting your trophy!
Our Top 5 Antler Mounting Kit Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Antler Mounting Kit Detailed Reviews
1. Hunters Specialties Deer Antler Mounting Kit – Hunting Easy-To-Assemble Wood Plaque Deer Mounting Kit with Red & Cream-Colored Skull Cover
Rating: 9.2/10
Show off your hunting success with the Hunters Specialties Deer Antler Mounting Kit. This kit makes it simple to display your prized deer antlers. It includes everything you need to create a handsome display. The wood plaque looks great in any room. The skull cover comes in classic red and cream colors. You’ll have your trophy mounted in no time.
What We Like:
- Easy to assemble, saving you time and effort.
- Comes with all the necessary hardware, so no extra trips to the store.
- The wood plaque provides a sturdy and attractive base for your antlers.
- The included skull cover adds a nice touch to the finished display.
- Great for hunters of all skill levels to showcase their trophies.
What Could Be Improved:
- The skull cover color options are limited.
- Instructions could be a little clearer for absolute beginners.
This mounting kit is a fantastic way to preserve and proudly display your hunting memories. It offers a straightforward and satisfying way to create a lasting tribute to your hunt.
2. Taxidermists Woodshop TTW Ultimate Antler Mounting Kit – Black Walnut
Rating: 8.5/10
The Taxidermists Woodshop TTW Ultimate Antler Mounting Kit in Black Walnut is a fantastic way to proudly display your harvested trophies. This kit makes turning your hard-earned antlers into a beautiful wall decoration simple and straightforward. It’s designed for hunters who want a quality, made-in-America solution for showcasing their hunting memories.
What We Like:
- The solid black walnut wood is beautiful and strong. It gives your mounted antlers a rich, classic look.
- Setting up your antlers is quick and easy. You don’t need to be a woodworking expert to get a great result.
- Everything you need is in the box. The kit comes with clear instructions and all the necessary hardware.
- The satin finish is smooth and elegant. It protects the wood and makes your display shine.
- This kit is proudly made in the USA. You’re supporting American craftsmanship.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the kit is easy to use, some users might wish for a slightly more detailed guide for very large or unusually shaped antlers.
- The satin finish, while lovely, could potentially be more scratch-resistant with a slightly harder top coat.
This kit offers a premium presentation for your trophy antlers. It’s a smart choice for any hunter looking for a durable, attractive, and easy-to-assemble mounting solution.
3. Plaque Master by Illusion
Rating: 8.7/10
Showcase your prized deer rack with the Plaque Master by Illusion. This innovative antler mounting kit makes displaying your hunting success simple and stylish. Its Mossy Oak Bottomland backing adds a touch of the outdoors to your trophy, while the adjustable cover ensures a perfect fit for any size antlers. Forget complicated taxidermy; the Plaque Master offers a quick, affordable, and impressive way to honor your hunt.
What We Like:
- Super fast and easy to set up. You attach the antlers from the back, put on the cover, and secure it.
- Fits any size deer antlers! No more guessing or tricky cutting.
- Looks great with the Mossy Oak Bottomland design. It’s a fresh look compared to old-fashioned plaques.
- Everything you need is in the box, including instructions.
- Saves a lot of money compared to regular taxidermy.
- You can have your trophy on the wall in minutes.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the adjustable cover is great for fit, some hunters might prefer a more solid, custom-fit look for their skull plate.
- The Mossy Oak Bottomland pattern is specific; a wider variety of backing options could appeal to more people.
The Plaque Master by Illusion is a fantastic solution for any deer hunter wanting to display their antlers easily and affordably. It truly simplifies the process of turning your hunt into a lasting memory.
4. Allen Company Hunting Trophy Antler Mounting Kit
Rating: 9.1/10
Celebrate your hunting success with the Allen Company Hunting Trophy Antler Mounting Kit, Green Skull Cover. This kit makes it simple to display your impressive antlers. It’s a fantastic way to keep a reminder of your special hunts. The green skull cover fits many different antler shapes.
What We Like:
- The plaque looks great with its wood grain finish.
- The green skull cover is flexible and fits most antlers.
- You get a brass plaque that you can engrave with your details.
- It’s a simple DIY kit, so anyone can use it.
- It’s perfect for showcasing memorable trophies, like a hunter’s first big catch.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the skull cover is flexible, some very unusual antler shapes might still be a tight fit.
- The brass plaque is nice, but a slightly thicker material might feel more premium.
This kit is a straightforward and effective way to proudly display your hunting achievements. It’s an excellent choice for preserving those special memories for years to come.
5. Walnut Hollow Country Antler Display Mounting Kit in Solid Oak for Mule Deer & Whitetail Deer
Rating: 8.7/10
Show off your prized hunting memories with the Walnut Hollow Country Antler Display Mounting Kit. This kit is designed for both mule deer and whitetail deer antlers. It makes it simple to turn your trophy into a beautiful display piece. The solid oak crest is built to last and looks great on any wall.
What We Like:
- It’s a premium DIY kit that includes everything you need to mount your deer antlers.
- The solid oak crest is strong and attractive, perfect for displaying your trophy for years.
- This kit is proudly made in Wisconsin, USA.
- Assembly is straightforward with the included instructions and hardware.
- The finished display is a good size, about 10″ x 8″ x 2.75″.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the kit is comprehensive, some hunters might prefer more decorative options for the oak crest.
- The size is good for most antlers, but very large or uniquely shaped antlers might require additional consideration.
This mounting kit offers a fantastic way to proudly display your hunting success. It’s a well-made product that helps you create a lasting tribute to your trophy.
Your Guide to the Best Antler Mounting Kit
Got a trophy buck or a magnificent moose rack? Displaying those antlers proudly is a great way to remember your hunt. An antler mounting kit makes this easy. Let’s find the perfect kit for you.
What to Look For in an Antler Mounting Kit
When you shop for a kit, think about a few important things.
1. Key Features to Look For
- Ease of Use: Some kits are super simple, while others need more work. Look for clear instructions.
- Mounting Style: Do you want a plaque on the wall? A tabletop stand? A shield-shaped mount? Kits come in different styles.
- Hardware Included: Does the kit have all the screws, nails, and anchors you need? Make sure it does.
- Finish Options: Some kits offer different wood finishes or colors. Pick one that matches your room.
- Durability: You want your mount to last. Strong materials are a big plus.
2. Important Materials
The materials in your kit really matter.
- Wood: Most plaques are made of wood. Pine is common and affordable. Oak and walnut are harder woods that look richer. Some kits use composite wood, which is strong.
- Metal: Screws, bolts, and hanging hardware are usually metal. Stainless steel or brass looks good and won’t rust.
- Plastic/Resin: Some kits might have decorative elements or caps made of plastic or resin. These are usually fine for looks.
What Makes a Kit Great (or Not So Great)?
Not all kits are created equal. Here’s what makes a difference.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
- Good Quality Wood: Smooth, solid wood without knots looks best. A nice stain or finish makes it shine.
- Sturdy Hardware: Strong screws and a secure hanging bracket mean your mount stays put. Cheap hardware can break or strip easily.
- Clear Instructions: Well-written, easy-to-follow instructions make assembly a breeze. Confusing directions can be frustrating.
- Precise Fit: When parts fit together well, the finished mount looks professional. Gaps or misalignments mean lower quality.
- Cheap Materials: Thin wood, flimsy plastic, or weak metal will make your mount look and feel cheap.
Putting Your Kit to Work
Using an antler mounting kit is usually a straightforward process.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
- Simple Assembly: Most kits let you attach the antlers to a base or plaque. You might need a drill, screwdriver, or hammer. It’s usually a quick project.
- Displaying Memories: These kits are perfect for showing off your hunting success. They turn antlers into a piece of art.
- Home Decor: An antler mount adds a rustic or natural touch to any room. It looks great above a fireplace or on a den wall.
- Gifts: An antler mounting kit makes a thoughtful gift for any hunter.
Frequently Asked Questions About Antler Mounting Kits
Q: How hard is it to assemble an antler mounting kit?
A: Most kits are designed to be easy to assemble. Many just require a few screws and a screwdriver. Some might need a drill, but the instructions are usually very clear.
Q: What tools do I typically need?
A: You’ll likely need a screwdriver. Some kits might suggest a drill for pilot holes or a hammer for small nails. Always check the kit’s instructions.
Q: Can I mount antlers from any animal?
A: Yes, antler mounting kits work for deer, elk, moose, and other animals with antlers or horns. Just make sure the kit is sized appropriately for your trophy.
Q: Do kits come with everything I need?
A: Most kits include the mounting plaque or base, and the necessary screws or hardware. Sometimes, you might need to provide your own wall anchors if you’re mounting to drywall.
Q: What if I don’t like the finish of the wood?
A: Many kits use unfinished wood. This means you can paint or stain it to match your home decor. Some kits come with a pre-applied finish you can also paint over.
Q: How do I clean my mounted antlers?
A: You can gently dust your antlers with a soft brush or cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or too much water.
Q: Can I use a kit if my antlers are damaged?
A: Yes, some kits can help stabilize slightly damaged antlers. You might need wood glue or epoxy to repair them before mounting.
Q: What is the difference between a plaque mount and a shield mount?
A: A plaque mount is usually a flat piece of wood. A shield mount is often shaped like a shield or a rounded piece of wood, giving a different look.
Q: How do I hang the mounted antlers securely?
A: Most kits come with a hanging bracket or wire. Make sure to use a stud finder if hanging on a wall to ensure it’s mounted into a wall stud for maximum security.
Q: Can I buy just the hardware if I already have a wooden base?
A: Sometimes. You can often buy antler mounting hardware kits separately. These usually include the screws and skull caps needed to attach the antlers.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.