Skinning for Rugs & Full Body Mounts

THE FLAT INCISION IS USED FOR RUG MOUNTS. The areas to be cut are shown in the figure attached. Make these slits (cutting the feet free from the carcass) and pull the skin off the carcass. The head is detached as with the shoulder mount. Note: If you can't take your hide immediately to a taxidermsit, freeze it to your taxidermist's specifications. THE DORSEL METHOD OF SKINNING IS USED FOR FULL BODY MOUNTS. It involves a long slit down the back( From the tail base up into the neck). The carcass is skinned as it is pulled through this incision. The feet/hooves and the head are cut off from the carcass as with shoulder mounts. Use this method with approval and detailed instruction from your taxidermist. TIPS: Always have appropriate tags with your trophies when you take them to your taxidermist. Do not cut the ears for attachment. For situations where you are hunting with no available taxidermist or freezer, ask your taxidermist about techniques to skin out the entire cape (including the head) and salting the hide. This is the only method in remote locations that can preserve your hide for later mounting.