I have searched the forums but could not find the answers I needed. I use preservative on my gameheads instead of tanning. I know there is alot of disagreement on the subject but I have heads of my own and family that I did with this method that are 20 yrs old and still look fine (no drying out or hair falling out). I have an antelope to mount and didn't know if I have to tan it or could I preserve it? There is actually less handling of the cape. I know they are more sensitive. Thanks for your help.
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While I'm sure DP would work, antelope have cheek glands, and will have an odor. Many find the odor offensive. Tanning will help wash out the oils left behind on the hide side and the hair side, after shaving the glands off. Not that you couldn't possibly add some rinse and deoderizing steps to your dp process, but if your going to those lengths, why not tan, or send it out to be commerically tanned. commercial tanneries charge $30 to $40 depending on the tannery, and No Odor.
I'm not a taxidermist, but have had most of my deer heads done using DP ..about 20 heads..no problems ...and a few done with tanning...again noproblems. I also had 3 antelope done ..2 were tanned and one was a DP. The DP had problems..and a smell....the tanned ones look better and I had no problems. Not a professional opinion..just an observation.