I've got a question : How difficult is mounting a lifesize Black Bear if the skin is already tanned and ready to mount? I'm thinking of getting a skin and a form to mount a standing Bear but i'm not sure how hard it will be. I've mounted a few game heads and medium mammals like foxes. Is it the same basic princible as any mammal just on a bigger scale and are there any particular area to watch out for? Appreciate any help. Thanks
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You dont mount a bear you build a bear. Triple check all your measurements and plan each step, it will work.
Rich
http://www.rgswildlifetaxidermy.com
Just the same, only different. I find bear very forgiving compared to wild sheep, cats, and African stuff. As Richard said, insure your measurements are taken after the hide is STRETCHED. Cut deep relief cuts under the legs and test fit the hide before you start in earnest. Some seams won't come together on SOME FORMS, but if covered with a wet towel and then with plastic freezer wrap overnight, they can be resewn the next day (or the next) and the hide will stretch to fit. Remember, a bear loses and gains tons of weight each year. The hide seems thin, but it's tough and will hold a stitch well.
It's self serving and I apologize for it, but WASCO sells a Taxi-Tuk tool that's indespensible when working with lifesize animals. With bears, some people swear by glue and others swear at it. Regardless of which you use, gluing the face and those arm pits is imperative.