I have been doing deer heads for about 6 years now, mostly for hunting pardners who say they like my work (& price too I guess) The word got around and others have been calling. 2 Clients this year didn't contact me to do their deer 'til Feb - March. The heads were frozen whole. The first one created about 3 - 4 hours more work than I thought but it turned out OK and he is happy with it. But the second one was left in his shop (below freezing) all winter. The temp did rise above freezing from time to time. He finally put it into the freezer in early March. I suggested that we get another cape to guarantee a good mount. But I would let him know when it thawed if that was necessary. My problem is how do I tell early on in the process if this cape is good or not. I don't want to go through all the steps of hide prep and mounting only to find hair slip in the end.
How can I tell ? Please help.
GPo
If the cape wasnt frozen its more than likely bad. It doesnt take long when temperatures are above freezing. Most freezers are well below 32 degrees.
This ensures that there is no bacterial growth. If a cape is ruined it will have a tainted smell. In my experience the hair will readily pull out. Your cape may make it, but if I were you Id look for another! Just my opinion!