While I'm generally not in the habit of trying to start and arguement, I think I might be guilty of one with this topic. Ive looked in the archives, consulted other taxidermists and even used a Ouji board, but haven't seen anyone tackle this one "definitively".
On a velvet antlered animal what are the pros and cons of using a chemical preservation method versus freeze drying? As to the application of chemicals, Ive heard of a formic acid pickle, "Antler Tan", "Velvet Tan", Borax, Formeldhyde/Glycerin, etc, all with mixed results.
As to using a freeze dryer, Ive heard problems with slippage, and shrinkage, yet its safer than using chemicals.
So here's the challenge, what is your favorite method and why do you prefer it over the other methods? I've done both and have my own opinion, but would like to hear yours. To cut down on the huge realm of possibilities, lets say its freshly harvested game and has arrived in your shop in good condition.
I realize it would be different if you were in Frostbite Falls Quebec on a pack in caribou hunt or its been dead for three weeks and full of maggots when it shows up at your door.
Hugh
www.initaxidermy.com
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is the only thing I have ever used. I haven't had any problems with it, especially if the antlers are fresh. I had a set of antlers that were brought to me a day after the deer was killed and they were a little more of a pain to inject, but still turned out good. I have also injected some with velvet tan that had been frozen for a couple of weeks-no problem. I haven't tried any other methods, so I can't compare, but am also interested in hearing what works for others.
Freeze dry by far. I've never had any of the "Tanning" solutions work for me. Not that they don't, others have had success. Slippage will occur with either method if the antlers are too far gone. In that case, I strip them and ship them to Research Mannikins. I charge the same for
velvet antlers wheither they get freeze dried or shipped to RM. I also discuss the possibility of slippage and RM artifical velvet as a backup plan with my customers. Most are happy with that. Prepping the antlers takes as much time as using the chemicals. The difference lies in the drying. The vaccum of a freeze drier ensures that all the moisture is gone. With the chemical only treatments, I've seen small pockets or bubbles that were thought to be chemical and turned out to be blood, resulting in slippage. These wet areas usually are the problem areas as they are not notices immediately.
Antlers that are palmated are more of a problem that your Typical whitetail or muledeer.