I need to know what the average cost is for commercially tanning a black bear for a lifesize mount. Thanks.
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I could give you an average Ontario bear (less than 300 pounds max usually) and say from $100 to 125. But the Labrador bears get big. PA bears get big. And that 600 pounder + they took a couple years back is flat out huge. Tanneries are going to charge you by the square foot of hide tanned. Prices are close, but a few square feet here or there could make a BIG difference.
Now, if I might, it really doesn't matter what they charge. Having them done professionally is worth every penny spent and for customers, you just build it into the pricing. Personally, I'd NEVER try to tan a bear myself any more.
I had a customer ask me what I would charge for a black bear L/S mount. I am just trying to figure up the cost. Generally we get some big bear here in NC.
My tannery charges $20/foot measured from nose to base of tail. Not by square feet. So, that fits right in with George's cost of about 100 to 125 for a 5 to 6 foot bear.