Creating a European mount of your deer head is a rewarding way to preserve your hunting trophy. This guide provides a step-by-step process for properly cleaning the skull, ensuring a stunning and lasting display. We’ll cover everything from initial preparation to the final stages of whitening. Let's get started!
Initial Preparation: Getting Started Right
Before you begin the cleaning process, safety is paramount. Always wear appropriate safety gear, including gloves and eye protection. The process involves working with sharp tools and potentially harmful chemicals.
1. Removing the Hide and Meat:
- Field Dressing: Ideally, begin the process as soon as possible after the deer is harvested. Field dressing involves removing the hide and as much meat as possible from the skull. This significantly reduces the chances of attracting insects and bacteria.
- Skull Cap Removal: Carefully remove the skull cap (the top of the skull). A sharp knife is recommended, but take your time to avoid damaging the skull. Remember, the goal is to preserve the skull, not the hide or meat.
- Thorough Cleaning: Use a scraping tool or your knife to carefully remove all remaining muscle tissue, fat, and cartilage from the skull. Pay close attention to the crevices and nasal cavity. A high-pressure water hose can be very helpful at this stage, but avoid excessive force that might damage the bone.
The Cleaning Process: Boiling and Maceration
Two primary methods exist for cleaning deer skulls: boiling and maceration. Boiling is quicker, while maceration is slower but gentler on the skull.
2. The Boiling Method:
This method involves simmering the skull in water to loosen remaining tissue.
- Simmering: Place the skull in a large pot with enough water to cover it completely. Add a mild detergent (like dish soap) to help break down remaining tissue. Simmer the skull for several hours, checking periodically and adding more water as needed. Avoid excessive boiling, which can weaken the bone.
- Deboning: Once the meat is easily removed, carefully scrape away any remaining tissue with a scraping tool or knife.
- Final Rinse: Thoroughly rinse the skull with water to remove any residual detergent or organic matter.
3. The Maceration Method:
This method involves soaking the skull in water for several days or weeks to allow the tissue to decompose naturally.
- Soaking: Place the skull in a container large enough to submerge it completely. Add enough water to cover it. Change the water every few days, especially in the early stages, to prevent foul odors.
- Cleaning: Once the majority of the tissue has decomposed (this can take several weeks, depending on the temperature and size of the skull), carefully scrape away the remaining tissue using a scraping tool or knife. Thorough rinsing is required after.
Whitening the Skull: Achieving a Pristine Finish
After cleaning, the skull needs whitening to achieve that museum-quality finish.
4. Whitening with Peroxide:
Hydrogen peroxide is a common and effective whitening agent.
- Soaking: Submerge the skull in a container filled with a solution of 3-6% hydrogen peroxide. The higher the concentration, the quicker the whitening process, but use caution as higher concentrations can also damage the bone.
- Monitoring: Check the skull periodically. Once the desired level of whiteness is achieved, remove it from the solution and rinse thoroughly.
- Drying: Allow the skull to dry completely in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight.
5. Optional Finishing Touches:
- Sealing: A sealant can help protect the skull from the elements and further discoloration.
- Mounting: Once fully dry, the skull can be mounted on a plaque or displayed using other methods.
Conclusion: Your Stunning European Mount
Following these steps will lead you to a professionally cleaned and beautifully presented European mount. Remember patience and meticulous attention to detail are key to success. Enjoy your trophy!
