I have mounted six turkeys, two flying and and four standing but have not mounted one in over two years. On these birds I have always left the tail on during the skinning, fleshing, washing, and mounting procedures. I have read recently that many are removing the tail fan first and then proceeding with the job. It certainly seems that it would be easier to handle the tail and get it set in the desired position by removing it first. Exactly where is the cut made to remove the tail and how many of the smaller feathers that cover the bottom portion of the tail fan are left with the fan. Can I use the Zap-A-Gap glue that I typically use to glue the skin back around the beaks of my waterfowl to glue the turkey skin back together? Thanks for your help, REJ.
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Lift the coverts and find the oil gland. Cut right above it (on the head side). I have to admit that I've never glued any of them back into the hide. The coverts do the job sufficiently as long as the skin that holds them is pinned in place.
Hey George, in the break through magazine, I think article #66, show/recommend cutting at the oil gland but says to do it on the tail side leaving the gland with the body. I've done a couple this way so far. Does it make a difference?
FYI: It shows after removing all meat, fat, etc to place a "U" shaped wire at the quills and bondo in place. You then glue the skin back back onto the bondo.
Pat